A cross-party group of Italian lawmakers has introduced an amendment aimed at banning the use of artificial intelligence-generated content during election and referendum campaigns. The proposal, attached to the referendum decree, is designed to safeguard the integrity, transparency and fairness of the democratic process.

Under the plan, publishing AI-generated material would be prohibited throughout the entire campaign period and until the close of voting operations. The signatories argue that the measure is necessary to prevent manipulation, disinformation and interference with voters’ choices.

Online platforms would be required to activate rapid reporting and removal procedures for unlawful content, while Italy’s communications authority, Agcom, would oversee enforcement. Those found guilty of spreading misleading or manipulated material produced with AI systems could face prison sentences ranging from one to four years.

Harsher penalties would apply in cases involving automated networks, bot farms, fake accounts or coordinated amplification systems, as well as when foreign funding or support is involved. The sponsors of the amendment hope for broad parliamentary backing, stressing that protecting the freedom and fairness of the vote is a shared responsibility across political lines.