California AI Laws Protect Actors

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed two groundbreaking bills into law that safeguard actors and performers from unauthorized digital replicas. The new legislation, AB2602 and AB1836, requires explicit consent before creating and using a performer’s digital likeness. This move aims to combat the rising concern over AI-generated deepfakes in the entertainment industry. Let’s understand how California AI laws protect Actors!

Strengthening Actors’ Rights

Last year, artificial intelligence became a major sticking point between SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). Talks broke down over issues like protecting background actors. Who were offered just one day’s pay in exchange for studios creating digital avatars for future use. This led to a months-long strike, bringing Hollywood productions to a standstill.

Now, the new California AI laws for actors significantly strengthen performers’ rights. Introduced by Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D-San Jose), Assembly Bill 2602 mandates that contracts must specify when AI-generated replicas are being created and clearly state the conditions under which these replicas will be used. Actors are also required to have legal representation when entering into AI-related rights contracts.

Protecting Deceased Performers

Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) introduced Assembly Bill 1836, which prohibits the creation of digital replicas of deceased actors for commercial purposes without permission from the performer’s estate. Violators face damages of at least $10,000. This law ensures that even after death, a performer’s image and legacy are protected.

Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of these laws in a video post on X. “A lot of dreamers come to California, but sometimes they’re not well-represented,” he said. “With SAG-AFTRA and this bill I just signed, we’re making sure that no one turns over their name, image, and likeness to unscrupulous people without representation or union advocacy.”

Industry Applause

SAG-AFTRA, which had been in negotiations with studios over the use of artificial intelligence and compensation for performers’ voices and likenesses, cheered the new laws. Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator, stated: “AB1836 and AB2602 represent much-needed legislation prioritizing the rights of individuals in the AI age. No one should live in fear of becoming someone else’s unpaid digital puppet.”

These California AI laws for actors set a precedent in the fight against unauthorized AI-generated content. They provide a legal framework to protect both living and deceased performers from exploitation.

California’s new legislation marks a significant step in protecting actors’ rights in the digital age. By requiring consent and setting strict guidelines, the state ensures performers have control over their digital likenesses. This move not only safeguards individuals but also upholds the integrity of the entertainment industry.