France set to introduce disclosure law on photoshopped pics

French politicians are pushing a new law that will force publishers who use photoshopped pictures to print a disclosure that the pictures are photoshopped.

The new photoshopped disclosure law, which would apply to any “retouched photograph aimed at changing a person’s physical appearance” is being pushed as a way to combat body image issues in the general population.

“We want to combat the stereotypical image that all women are young and slim” MP Valerie Boyer told the Telegraph.
“These photos can lead people to believe in a reality that does not actually exist, and have a detrimental effect on adolescents. Many young people, particularly girls, do not know the difference between the virtual and reality, and can develop complexes from a very young age.”

“In some cases this leads to anorexia or bulimia and very serious health problems…It’s not just a question of public health, but also a way of protecting the consumer.”

The law, which would apply to political material and billboards as well as magazines, will be backed by fines of up to $50,000, or up to 50% of the cost of the publicity campaign.

(via Mashable)