House requires disclosure when campaigns use AI-created images of candidates

Representative Mandy Landry sponsored HB 459 to require disclosure whenever an image or visual portrayal of a candidate is created using artificial intelligence within 60 days of an election. Landry and colleagues said the measure is aimed at malicious deepfakes and misleading AI imagery, not at preventing ordinary photo edits, and the floor amendment narrowed the bill to disclosure rather than a ban.

Members raised technical questions about how the law would distinguish between simple photo editing and AI-generated imagery, and how small-scale campaign producers or volunteers would comply. Representative Phelps and others asked whether benign edits (for example, removing gray hair) would require disclosure; Representative Landry said consultants and campaigns should seek counsel when uncertain and noted the bill uses statutory definitions of artificial intelligence used elsewhere in state law.

Representative Homady voiced concern that the bill still sweeps too broadly and could criminalize small-scale, non-malicious edits; supporters replied that the statute was narrowed to match related legislation and to limit penalties to preexisting statutory ranges. On final passage the House recorded 67 yays and 34 nays.

What happens next: HB 459 moves to the Senate. Campaigns, vendors and party committees will likely seek clarifications in subsequent rulemaking or campaign guidance about thresholds and acceptable disclosures.

Sources: Floor comments and roll-call on final passage.