This bill makes it illegal to spread false information that is meant to stop or discourage people from voting in federal elections. It bars knowingly false statements about when, where, or how to vote, or about who is eligible to vote, within 60 days before covered federal elections. It also bans using artificial intelligence to produce such false information when the user intends the content to be false and to stop people from voting. The bill forbids intentionally hindering or preventing people from voting or registering, including setting up fake polling places. It creates a private civil right to sue for preventive relief, adds criminal penalties (up to 1 year in jail or fines) for deceptive acts and for hindering voting, and requires the Attorney General to correct false information if state or local officials do not act. The bill requires the Attorney General to publish procedures for corrective action within 180 days, to report to Congress after each general election about allegations and responses, and it directs the Sentencing Commission to review relevant guidelines. It also makes related changes to existing voting statutes, including adding payment for ‘‘not voting’’ to a prohibited practice and extending protections for people processing ballots.
No publicly available information on cost estimates. The bill authorizes the Attorney General to receive appropriations "such sums as may be necessary" to carry out corrective actions. It also directs the United States Sentencing Commission to review sentencing guidelines, but provides no cost figures.
The bill's findings say deceptive or intimidating practices have been used to suppress turnout, often directed at racial, ethnic, and language minority communities. It cites examples of misleading mailings, robocalls, social media campaigns, and foreign influence operations. Supporters argue stronger federal rules, criminal penalties, corrective communication by the Attorney General, and private lawsuits are needed to protect voting rights and preserve election integrity.
No publicly available information.