On July 1, 2024, new legislation in Colorado will enhance the protection of election integrity and address the growing threat of deepfake media. The laws, sponsored by Democrats, target “fake elector” schemes and require penalties for attempts to create false slates of electors. This includes criminalizing forgery and perjury related to fake electors, with violations punishable by fines and disqualification from public office.
The legislation follows attempts by former President Trump and his allies to overturn the 2020 election results by recruiting fake electors in several key states. The new laws aim to prevent such schemes from undermining democracy by ensuring that those involved face serious legal consequences.
In addition, the new regulations address the threat posed by deepfake technology. House Bill 24-1147 mandates that deepfake media involving political candidates must include a clear disclaimer that the content is not real. This is intended to protect voters from misinformation and ensure they can make informed decisions based on genuine information.
These legislative efforts reflect a proactive approach to safeguarding electoral processes from manipulation and deception. The laws will enhance transparency and accountability in elections, contributing to the broader goal of maintaining the integrity of democratic institutions amid evolving challenges.
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