SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California Gov. Gavin Newsom has taken a major step in protecting Hollywood actors and performers from unauthorized artificial intelligence manipulation. On Tuesday, Newsom signed off on legislation aimed at preventing the creation of digital clones of actors without their consent.
The move comes as California legislators have intensified efforts to regulate the entertainment industry, which plays a significant role in daily American life but has lacked oversight in the United States. These new laws reflect the governor’s commitment to balancing the protection of citizens and workers against potential AI risks while supporting the growth of the rapidly evolving industry.
In a statement, Newsom emphasized the importance of safeguarding workers in the constantly changing landscape of AI and digital media in entertainment. “This legislation ensures the industry’s prosperity while enhancing protections for workers and controlling the use of their likeness,” he said.
One of the new laws inspired by a Hollywood actors’ strike last year allows performers to terminate contracts if unclear language might enable studios to use AI technology to create digital clones of their voices and appearances without their permission. The law will be effective in 2025 and is supported by organizations like the California Labor Federation and SAG-AFTRA.
Another law signed by Newsom prevents the commercial use of digital clones of deceased performers without the approval of their estates. This law was championed after a media company produced a fake AI-generated comedy special mimicking the late comedian George Carlin without consent.
SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher hailed the new laws, saying, “They say as California goes, so goes the nation!” California is leading the way in providing performer protection against AI, with states like Tennessee also enacting similar laws to protect musicians and artists.
Supporters believe these laws will encourage responsible AI usage without stifling innovation, while critics, including the California Chamber of Commerce, argue that they may be challenging to enforce and could lead to prolonged legal battles in the future.
These new laws are part of a series of measures passed by lawmakers this year to regulate the AI industry. Newsom has hinted at signing a proposal to address election deepfakes and is considering establishing safety measures for large AI models.
The governor has until Sept. 30 to make final decisions on the proposals. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission.