A federal judge blocks California's new election deepfake law, citing First Amendment concerns, in a case involving an AI-altered video of Kamala Harris.
In a significant ruling, a federal judge has blocked California's new law banning election-related deepfakes, deeming it unconstitutional under the First Amendment. The law, AB 2839, allowed individuals to sue for damages over AI-generated deepfakes of political candidates close to election periods. The case, sparked by an AI-altered video of Vice President Kamala Harris, raises crucial questions about the intersection of free speech and emerging technologies.
Key Points:
Election Deepfake Ban Struck Down: Judge John A. Mendez ruled California’s AB 2839 unconstitutional, citing violations of the First Amendment and California’s free speech provisions.
Deepfake Law Challenged: The case was brought by Christopher Kohls, who produced a satirical AI video of Kamala Harris. His lawyer argued that the deepfake was protected satire under free speech laws.
Musk’s Involvement: The video was shared by X (formerly Twitter) executive chairman Elon Musk, who hailed the court ruling as a victory for free speech.
Implications for AI and Free Speech: The ruling adds to the growing legal discourse over how AI-generated content like deepfakes interacts with constitutional protections, particularly in political contexts.
Related:
Judge Mendez's ruling against California’s deepfake law marks a critical moment in the legal landscape surrounding AI and free speech. While deepfakes pose real threats, the decision reinforces the need for nuanced legal approaches that balance technological regulation with constitutional rights.
Source: Cointelegraph
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