Bipartisan Legislation Aims to Combat AI Deepfakes

The Growing Concern

As technology advances, the threat of AI-generated deepfakes looms larger than ever. This article addresses the urgent need for legislative action to counter this growing menace.

Key Topics Covered

• Overview of the NO FAKES Act and its implications
• Bipartisan support and legislative history
• Potential legal consequences for violators

Importance for Readers

Understanding this legislation is vital, as it not only protects individual rights but also shapes the future landscape for creators and technology developers alike.

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Introduction of the NO FAKES Act

A bipartisan coalition in the U.S. House of Representatives unveiled their version of the NO FAKES Act—designed to “Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe” on Thursday. This follows similar proposals seen in the U.S. Senate earlier this year, aiming to tackle concerns stemming from AI-generated deepfakes.

Legislative Background

The NO FAKES Act is championed by a diverse group of representatives, which includes:

• Rep. María Elvira Salazar (R-FL)
• Rep. Madeleine Dean (D-PA)
• Rep. Nathaniel Moran (R-TX)
• Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA)
• Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA)
• Rep. Joe Morelle (D-NY)

Concerns About AI Abuse

“AI abuse threatens the ability of Americans to express themselves publicly, both online and in person,” stated Rep. Salazar. “The NO FAKES Act will strengthen federal protections for your individual right to your voice and likeness and protect our ability to express ourselves creatively for the world to see.”

Understanding AI-Generated Deepfakes

The potential harms caused by AI-generated deepfakes are significant and could lead to severe consequences for those affected if not managed properly. The act seeks to empower individuals against these threats.

Legislative Support and Statements

Proud to join my colleagues in support of the NO FAKES Act—bipartisan, common-sense legislation to ensure our laws stay up to date with technology.

— Joe Morelle (@RepJoeMorelle) September 12, 2024

Origins of the NO FAKES Act

The NO FAKES Act was initially proposed in October of the previous year by a bipartisan group of U.S. senators, which included:

• Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN)
• Sens. Thom Tillis (R-NC)
• Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN)
• Sens. Chris Coons (D-DE)

In July, this legislation made its way to the U.S. Senate as well.

Key Provisions of the NO FAKES Act

The NO FAKES Act aims to establish robust federal intellectual property rights for individuals regarding their voice and likeness, which includes:

• Empowerment for individuals to initiate legal action against unauthorized usage of their digital personas.
• Protection for media platforms from liability when they promptly remove infringing content.

Enforcement and Penalties

Should the NO FAKES Act be enacted, violators creating unauthorized AI-generated content may face:

1. A fine of $5,000 for each infringement.
2. Additional liabilities for damages incurred by the affected individuals.

Supporting Statements from Lawmakers

“The NO FAKES Act will protect innovation while safeguarding the rights, contributions, and livelihoods of all creators,” stated Rep. Schiff. “I am proud to join in introducing this important bipartisan legislation that will establish a national standard to protect creators while supporting exciting, new AI technologies.”

Projected Implementation Date

If passed, the NO FAKES Act is set to come into effect on January 2, 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the purpose of the NO FAKES Act?

The NO FAKES Act is designed to “Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe.” It aims to address concerns related to AI-generated deepfakes and strengthen protections for individuals regarding their voice and likeness.

2. Who are the main supporters of the NO FAKES Act in the House of Representatives?

The act is championed by a bipartisan coalition that includes:

• Rep. María Elvira Salazar (R-FL)
• Rep. Madeleine Dean (D-PA)
• Rep. Nathaniel Moran (R-TX)
• Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA)
• Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA)
• Rep. Joe Morelle (D-NY)

3. What are the potential harms of AI-generated deepfakes?

AI-generated deepfakes can lead to significant harms, including the potential misrepresentation of individuals and the infringement of personal rights. The NO FAKES Act seeks to empower individuals against these threats.

4. What provisions does the NO FAKES Act include for individuals?

The NO FAKES Act aims to establish robust federal intellectual property rights, including:

• Empowerment for individuals to initiate legal action against unauthorized usage of their digital personas.
• Protection for media platforms from liability if they promptly remove infringing content.

5. What penalties might violators face under the NO FAKES Act?

If enacted, violators of the NO FAKES Act creating unauthorized AI-generated content may face:

1. A fine of $5,000 for each infringement.
2. Additional liabilities for damages incurred by the affected individuals.

6. When was the NO FAKES Act first proposed?

The NO FAKES Act was initially proposed in October of the previous year by a bipartisan group of U.S. senators.

7. What statements have lawmakers made in support of the NO FAKES Act?

Lawmakers have expressed their support for the act, highlighting its importance. For example, Rep. Schiff stated the act will protect innovation while safeguarding the rights of all creators.

8. What is the projected implementation date for the NO FAKES Act?

If passed, the NO FAKES Act is set to come into effect on January 2, 2025.

9. What are the broader implications of the NO FAKES Act for creators?

The act seeks to establish a national standard that protects creators’ rights, contributions, and livelihoods while supporting new AI technologies.

10. What concerns have representatives expressed about AI misuse?

Representatives have raised concerns that AI abuse threatens the ability of Americans to express themselves publicly, both online and in person. The NO FAKES Act aims to strengthen protections for individual rights to voice and likeness.