Legislation would require transparency regarding the use of AI in political advertisements

Santa Fe, N.M. -  Tonight, the House of Representatives passed HB 182, which would improve transparency and regulate the use of artificial intelligence in election campaigns, by a vote of 38-28. 

House Bill 182 would require a disclaimer for materially-deceptive media generated by artificial intelligence (AI), often referred to as a “deep fake,” when it is used in campaign or election-related material. The notice must be clearly and conspicuously displayed to indicate any manipulated media used in web, print, radio, or televised political materials.  

“Voters should feel confident in what is real and what is fake when making decisions at the ballot box,” said Majority Leader Gail Chasey (D-Albuquerque). “At a time when disinformation is undermining people’s faith in democracy, requiring transparency around deep fakes will encourage authenticity in advertising and grow the public’s trust in New Mexico’s electoral process.”  

House Bill 182 would also make knowingly distributing materially-deceptive media a misdemeanor on the first conviction and a fourth-degree felony on the second. 

The bill is also sponsored by Rep. Charlotte Little (D-Albuquerque) and Senator Katy Duhigg (D-Albuquerque). It is the 47th bill passed by the House and it now heads to the Senate.

The Roundhouse is open to the public for the 2024 session. Members of the public can also view floor sessions and committee meetings on the New Mexico Legislature’s Webcasts tab, and provide comment via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.