Technology (Elections)

AB 271 prohibits the use of artificial intelligence in voting equipment, ballot processing, and counting systems. It requires disclosures for any AI-generated election-related content (e.g., ads advocating for candidates or ballot measures) and bans the distribution of deceptive deepfakes of candidates within 90 days of an election, with limited exceptions for news coverage, satire, and verified disclaimers. The bill directly affects election technology vendors, political advertisers, and content creators, mandating transparency and restricting AI-generated misinformation during elections. Key provisions define "synthetic media" and "deceptive deepfakes" to clarify enforcement.