Texas House Bill 366: Protecting Free Speech While Addressing AI Misinformation.

As a proud Texan and staunch advocate for free speech, I believe in the importance of addressing the challenges posed by emerging technologies, including the use of generative AI in political advertising. Texas House Bill 366 aims to tackle the dissemination of deceptive political content by requiring disclaimers on altered media. While the intent behind this legislation is commendable, it’s crucial to ensure that our efforts to combat misinformation do not inadvertently infringe upon our constitutional rights.

https://legiscan.com/TX/text/HB366/id/3197809

Satire has long been a vital component of political commentary, allowing citizens to critique and challenge those in power through humor and exaggeration. From political cartoons to late-night comedy shows, satire serves as a tool for holding leaders accountable and fostering public discourse. However, concerns have been raised that HB 366, in its current form, lacks explicit protections for satirical content. Critics argue that the bill’s broad language could potentially criminalize legitimate expressions of satire and parody, which are protected under the First Amendment.

To strike the right balance between combating misinformation and preserving free speech, I propose that HB 366 be amended to include explicit exemptions for satire and parody. By clearly defining and protecting these forms of expression, we can prevent unintended consequences that may arise from the bill’s enforcement. Additionally, empowering the Texas Ethics Commission to oversee and interpret these exemptions can provide a structured approach to distinguishing between malicious misinformation and legitimate satirical content.

As we navigate the complexities of regulating digital content in the age of AI, it’s imperative that we uphold the principles enshrined in our Constitution. By refining HB 366 to protect satirical expression, we can address the challenges posed by deceptive media without compromising our fundamental rights.

I remain committed to advocating for policies that safeguard both the integrity of our democratic processes and the freedoms that define us as Texans and Americans.

Note: This blog post is based on the information available as of April 30, 2025. For the most current updates on HB 366 and related legislative developments, please refer to the link above and other official state resources.