California has introduced three new laws aimed at reducing AI-generated deepfakes ahead of the 2024 election. The legislation, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, is designed to combat election misinformation and protect the public from deceptive political ads. One law requires online platforms like X to remove false materials and empowers individuals to sue over election-related deepfakes.

However, two of these laws are now facing a legal challenge. A creator of parody videos featuring Kamala Harris claims the legislation violates free speech rights. The lawsuit, filed in Sacramento, accuses California of censoring content, despite assurances from Newsom’s office that the laws do not target satire or parody.

Supporters of the laws argue they are necessary to prevent erosion of trust in US elections, as AI-generated disinformation becomes an increasing threat. Critics, including free speech advocates, believe the legislation overreaches and could be ineffective due to slow court processes, limiting its impact.

Despite the debate, California’s laws could serve as a deterrent to potential violations. Legislators hope the rules will prompt platforms to act quickly in identifying and removing misleading content.