HB4557 - 104th General Assembly (2025-2026)

DIGITAL FORGERIES IN POLITICS
Last Action
2/17/2026 - House: Assigned to Judiciary - Civil Committee
Hearings
Judiciary - Civil Committee Hearing Mar 25 2026 8:00AM Capitol Building Room 114 Springfield, IL
Judiciary - Civil Committee Hearing Mar 26 2026 2:00PM Capitol Building Room 118 Springfield, IL
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