New York Governor Signs Pioneering AI Law
New York governor Kathy Hochul made history on Thursday by signing a bill to regulate AI usage in advertisements. This landmark legislation, identified as S.8420-A/A.8887-B, is touted as the first of its kind in the entire United States. The bill stipulates that advertisers must clearly declare if their advert features AI-generated individuals. Governor Hochul’s official announcement referred to the enactment as a ‘common sense’ regulation aiming to boost transparency and offer further protection to consumers.
This new legislation marks a significant step forward in the ongoing discussion around the integration of artificial intelligence in our daily interactions. The bill brings the importance and potential reach of AI to the forefront, drawing attention to how the technology can be used and the ethics around its application.
Focusing on the Film Industry
Of particular importance to the film industry and actors, these groundbreaking regulations represent a major stride in addressing one of their most pressing issues: the usage of AI technology and corresponding concerns of remuneration. With this law now on the books, it’s an indication of the proactive measures being taken to address the potential ethical and commercial implications of AI’s increasing presence in modern media.
The legislation doesn’t stop there. Another bill bearing Governor Hochul’s signature now mandates that entities must secure formal consent from the heirs or executors in order to commercially use a deceased person’s name or likeness. This provision offers a much-needed safeguard to protect the rights and dignities of those no longer among us.
The common thread among these newly enacted laws is an acknowledgment of the changing technological landscape, and a commitment to ensure that this evolution operates within ethical boundaries. They are a strong stride towards maintaining the necessary balance of respecting individual rights while recognizing and adapting to the evolution of technology in today’s digital age.
These legal measures provide a blueprint for other jurisdictions awaiting to navigate a path forward in the endlessly evolving intersection of technology, advertising, and consumer protection, particularly as AI continues to advance and permeate various sectors.
These progressive actions by the state of New York are clear indications that the journey towards better AI regulation has begun, even though there may be many miles left to tread.
