Melania Trump-Backed Deepfake Bill receives “Take It Down” act

In a strong bipartisan move to address digital abuse, the House of Representatives passed the TAKE IT DOWN Act with a resounding 409:2 vote. 
 
The legislation, championed by First Lady Melania Trump, now awaits final approval from President Donald Trump.
  
The Tools to Address Known Exploitation by Immobilizing Technological Deepfakes on Websites and Networks (TAKE IT DOWN) Act seeks to criminalize the non-consensual distribution of explicit content—both real and AI-generated—online. 
 
It mandates that platforms remove reported imagery within 48 hours of notification and implement streamlined, victim-friendly reporting systems.

 
Melania Trump, who advocated for the bill from Capitol Hill, emphasized the urgent need for stronger protections against online harassment and digital impersonation. 
 
The law applies to both adults and minors, specifically targeting content meant to harm, intimidate, or exploit individuals. 
 
It also prohibits threats to publish such material and enforces penalties including restitution, fines, and potential imprisonment.
 
Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) introduced the bill in January, with Representative Maria Salazar (R-FL) sponsoring it in the House. 
 
The Senate passed it in February. Only two lawmakers—Reps. Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Eric Burlison (R-MO)—voted against the measure, citing concerns about government overreach and the criminalization of AI-generated content.
 
As deepfake technology becomes increasingly accessible, the TAKE IT DOWN Act represents a landmark legislative effort to protect digital privacy, curb revenge porn, and establish clearer accountability for tech platforms in an evolving online landscape.