ST. PAUL, Minn. — On Tuesday, the Elections Committee heard testimony on legislation that would regulate synthetic media, known as “deep fakes,” when used to manipulate the outcome of elections or nonconsensually used to depict sexual content (SF 1394). Chief author Senator Erin Maye Quade (DFL-Apple Valley) testified in support of the bill and explained how deep fakes, which are highly realistic but completely fabricated video and audio depictions of people, can be used for propaganda purposes or as revenge porn.
“These technologies make it possible to create highly realistic yet completely false depictions of people doing and saying things that never actually happened. This has serious implications for privacy, free speech, and the integrity of our elections,” said Senator Maye Quade. “With the increase in sophistication of these technologies, it is becoming easier to create convincing fake news or propaganda that is designed to manipulate public opinion. This could potentially have a significant impact on the outcome of elections, undermining the integrity of our democratic process.”
“Every word I said before this [ed. note: Referring to the quote above] was actually generated by ChatGPT, which is (artificial intelligence). I put in one sentence; it was ‘remarks to Senate Elections Committee to regulate deep fakes,’” Senator Maye Quade continued. “Deep fake technology is very advanced, and it is becoming more and more advanced every passing month… This really does demand our urgent time and attention.”
The committee recommended the bill to pass and referred it to the Judiciary and Public Safety Committee.
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Learn more about Sen. Maye Quade.
