H7387 establishes regulations in Rhode Island to prohibit the distribution of deceptive synthetic media, such as manipulated images, audio, or videos, within 90 days of an election, to prevent “fraudulent” election communications. The bill allows candidates to seek injunctive relief or damages against creators of such media, exempting certain broadcasters, publications, satire, and internet services, with provisions effective upon passage.
The Rhode Island House passed H7387 on May 2, 2024 by a vote of 70 to 5. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation restricts free speech and expands government authority to police political expression. Taxpayer resources should not fund enforcement of vague regulations that could be abused to suppress legitimate discourse or satire. This legislation creates unnecessary bureaucratic oversight, threatening individual liberties and the constitutionally-protected right of free speech.
