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Rockland County Passes Landmark “Damaging Deepfake Act” to Combat AI-Generated Abuse and Digital Deception

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12 months ago

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New City, NY — November 6, 2025

Rockland County lawmakers have taken a firm stand against the misuse of artificial intelligence with the unanimous passage of the “Damaging Deepfake Act,” a groundbreaking local law that criminalizes the knowing creation or distribution of deceptive digital media that falsely depicts real people without their consent.

The legislation—sponsored by County Legislator Dana Stilley—targets the growing threat of deepfakes: hyper-realistic images, videos, and audio generated by AI to impersonate individuals or fabricate events. Under the new law, those found guilty of weaponizing AI for harassment, fraud, or impersonation could face fines or jail time, with harsher penalties for repeat or malicious offenses.

“The rapid spread of manipulated videos and audio doesn’t just distort reality—it endangers reputations, safety, and trust,” Stilley said. “When someone’s face or voice can be stolen with a few clicks, we must take action. With this legislation, we are safeguarding truth and protecting our residents.”

Rising Threat of Deepfakes

According to recent data, the number of deepfake creations has exploded from roughly 500,000 in 2023 to a projected 8 million in 2025. Nearly 98% of all deepfake videos are pornographic, disproportionately targeting women. AI-driven scams and impersonation frauds are also on the rise, costing U.S. victims over $12 billion in 2023, with losses expected to triple by 2027.

During a public hearing, Stefany Ovalles, Director of Immigration and Human Trafficking Services at the Center for Safety & Change, described the devastating effects of these technologies in domestic violence and revenge pornography cases.

“Perpetrators can now control and coerce their victims without even having access to explicit material,” Ovalles said. “This law helps protect women and children, who are statistically the most likely to be victims of domestic violence and sextortion.”

Ovalles added that sextortion cases involving youth are also increasing, including incidents in local school districts.

Protecting Victims and Upholding Consent

Dr. William P. Mullaney, President of Rockland Community College, praised the measure and said the legislation sends a powerful message about digital ethics and accountability.

“These are not harmless pranks—they are acts of digital violation that can harm victims for years to come,” Mullaney said. “Consent matters, even in the digital world.”

He noted that across the country, high school and college students have found their faces inserted into false and explicit images created by artificial intelligence—often with long-lasting emotional and reputational consequences.

A Growing Movement Against Digital Deception

While some federal and state laws address aspects of digital impersonation and defamation, agencies such as the U.S. Copyright Office have acknowledged that current legal protections remain inadequate. Rockland County now joins a small but growing number of jurisdictions enacting local measures to directly combat the misuse of AI.

Legislature Chairman Jay Hood Jr. said the law reinforces community trust and accountability in an era of fast-evolving technology.

“Deepfakes are digital lies that can destroy lives in seconds,” Hood said. “This local law gives us the means to help protect residents and businesses—and sends a clear message that digital deception will not go unchecked.”

Looking Ahead

As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, Rockland County’s new law represents one of the strongest local responses to date against the misuse of AI for deception, exploitation, and abuse. Lawmakers say the measure underscores a simple but vital principle in the digital age: authenticity and consent still matter.

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Government

Rockland County HEAP 2026-2027: Applications Open November 2

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3 days ago

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November 2, 2026

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With winter approaching and heating costs putting pressure on household budgets, Rockland County residents will be able to apply for financial assistance through the 2026–2027 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).

The Rockland County Department of Social Services announced that applications for Regular HEAP benefits will open Monday, November 2, 2026. The federally funded program helps eligible low-income households pay their home heating bills.

Residents do not need to have a heating emergency or receive a utility shutoff notice to apply. County officials are encouraging eligible households to submit applications early.

“With high heating costs putting pressure on household budgets, HEAP can help eligible low-income households, including older adults, people with disabilities, and families with young children, keep their heat on and stay warm this winter,” said Pat Frawley, Rockland County Commissioner of Social Services.

How Much Heating Assistance Is Available?

For the 2026–2027 heating season, base Regular HEAP benefits for eligible households that pay directly for heating include:

  • $400 for households using natural gas or electricity.
  • $990 for households using oil or propane.

Additional benefits may be available depending on household income and whether the household includes a child under age six, an adult 60 or older, or someone with a disability.

Both homeowners and renters may qualify, including some residents whose heating costs are included in their rent. Benefits are generally paid directly to the household’s heating supplier.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility and benefit amounts depend on:

  • Household income and family size.
  • The type of heating fuel used.
  • Whether the household includes a young child, older adult or person with a disability.

Households with active Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance (TA) cases may not need to file a separate Regular HEAP application.

How to Apply

Starting November 2, residents can apply through the following options:

  • Online: myBenefits.ny.gov
  • In person or by mail: Rockland County Department of Social Services, 50 Sanatorium Road, Building L, Pomona, NY 10970.
  • By phone: Call 845-364-3486 to see if you qualify for a telephone application.
  • By email: RocklandHEAP@dfa.state.ny.us
  • By fax: 845-364-3130.

Residents applying by mail, email, fax or in person must submit a completed and signed application along with the required supporting documents.

Emergency Heating Assistance Begins in January

Additional assistance will become available January 4, 2027, when Emergency HEAP opens for eligible households facing a heating crisis, such as a utility shutoff or a shortage of heating fuel.

Emergency applications cannot be submitted online through myBenefits. Residents must contact the HEAP Unit for assistance.

Homeowners may also qualify for help repairing or replacing heating equipment through the Heating Equipment Repair and Replacement program, as well as assistance through the Clean and Tune program. Both programs opened October 1, 2026.

Where to Get More Information

For questions about eligibility, applications or available heating assistance, contact the Rockland County HEAP Unit:

HEAP benefits are subject to available funding. Residents are encouraged to apply early.

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Government

Rockland County Warming Center Opens November 1 for Winter

Published

3 days ago

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November 2, 2026

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As colder weather approaches, Rockland County is preparing to provide shelter and essential services to residents experiencing homelessness with the reopening of its Warming Center on November 1.

County Executive Ed Day and Social Services Commissioner Patrick Frawley announced that the Rockland County Warming Center, located at the Dr. Robert L. Yeager Health Center in Pomona, will begin its winter season at 5 p.m. Sunday, November 1.

Operated by the Rockland County Department of Social Services (DSS), the facility can accommodate up to 75 homeless single adults each night, providing a warm and safe place to stay during the cold winter months.

The center will generally operate overnight, allowing guests to stay through the following morning. During periods when temperatures, including wind chill, fall below 32 degrees, the facility will also remain open during daytime hours.

Beyond providing a warm and safe place to rest, the Warming Center will offer guests access to essential services, including hot meals, showers and laundry facilities. On-site staff will also help individuals apply for public assistance benefits, explore job placement opportunities, obtain housing referrals and connect with other supportive services.

Transportation Available From Four Rockland Communities

Transportation to the Warming Center will be available from designated pickup locations in Nyack, Haverstraw, Spring Valley and Pomona.

The transportation schedule is as follows:

  • Nyack: 7 p.m. at Broadway and Burd Street, in front of First Reformed Church of Nyack.
  • Haverstraw: 7:30 p.m. from the commuter parking lot across from Village Hall.
  • Spring Valley: 5:30 p.m., 6:10 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. at the Spring Valley Bus and Train Station.
  • Pomona: 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at the Building L bus shelter on the Health Center campus.

County officials encourage residents who may need assistance, as well as those seeking information for someone experiencing homelessness, to contact the Department of Social Services.

For additional information about the Warming Center and available services, call the Rockland County Department of Social Services at (845) 364-2332 or (845) 608-6670.

Rockland County also operates an Emergency Family Shelter specifically for children and families. You can contact the Rockland County DSS or call their Rockland County Warming Center information line at (845) 364-2332.

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