Trends
California passes new laws to protect performers from AI misuse
California’s new laws protect actors from unauthorised AI use of their voice and likeness, and require contract transparency.
Headline
California’s new laws protect actors from unauthorised AI use of their voice and likeness, and require contract transparency.
Context
OUR TAKE California’s new laws protect performers by requiring contracts for AI-generated replicas and banning the use of deceased actors’ likenesses without estate consent. This move addresses growing concerns over AI misuse, including deepfakes, fraud, and democratic disruption. While federal regulation lags, state-level protections are crucial. –Jasmine Zhang, BTW reporter California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed two new laws designed to safeguard actors and performers from the unauthorised use of their digital replicas through AI.
Evidence
Pending intelligence enrichment.
Analysis
One bill mandates that contracts specify the use of AI-generated replicas of a performer’s voice or likeness, ensuring performers are professionally represented during negotiations. The second bill prohibits the commercial use of digital replicas of deceased performers without consent from their estates. These measures come amidst growing concerns over the implications of AI, including potential job loss and its role in fraud and democratic disruption. The Biden administration has been advocating for AI regulation, but progress has been slow due to a divided Congress. Similarly, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed a bill earlier this year aimed at protecting artists from unauthorised AI use. Also read: California approves legislation to tighten AI regulation
Key Points
- California’s new laws protect actors from unauthorised AI use of their voice and likeness, and require contract transparency.
- A second law prohibits using digital replicas of deceased performers without consent from their estates, addressing AI-driven ethical concerns.
Actions
Pending intelligence enrichment.
