HB4557 - 104th General Assembly (2025-2026)

DIGITAL FORGERIES IN POLITICS
Last Action
3/27/2026 - House: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Statutes Amended In Order of Appearance
New Act  
Synopsis As Introduced
Creates the Digital Forgeries in Politics Act. Provides that an individual depicted in a digital forgery who is an Illinois resident and a candidate for office in this State has a cause of action against any person who knowingly distributes, or enters into an agreement with another person to distribute, a digital forgery if: (1) the distribution occurs within 90 days before a regular election; and (2) the distribution is reasonably likely to harm the reputation or electoral prospects of a candidate in an election. Sets forth exceptions. Allows a court to issue a temporary restraining order, preliminary injunction, or permanent injunction ordering the defendant to cease the display or distribution of the digital forgery. Includes additional awards to a prevailing plaintiff.
Actions
DateChamberAction
1/23/2026HouseFiled with the Clerk by Rep. Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz
1/30/2026HouseFirst Reading
1/30/2026HouseReferred to Rules Committee
2/17/2026HouseAssigned to Judiciary - Civil Committee
2/18/2026HouseAdded Co-Sponsor Rep. Elizabeth "Lisa" Hernandez
3/27/2026HouseRule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee