Governor Newsom's AI Laws: Shaping California's Future

California Governor Gavin Newsom has been busy signing a wave of bills aimed at regulating Artificial Intelligence (AI), addressing concerns about everything from deepfake nudes to AI-generated robocalls. These measures mark significant progress in California's efforts to establish itself as a leader in AI ethics and regulation. The state has emerged as a crucial player in the global AI landscape, and Governor Newsom's actions are attracting attention worldwide.

Deepfake Nudes: A Focus on Protection

Recognizing the potential for misuse of AI technology, Governor Newsom has prioritized the protection of individuals from harmful deepfake content. The governor has signed two laws that address the creation and spread of deepfake nudes:

• SB 926: Criminalizes the act of blackmailing someone with AI-generated nude images that resemble them. This law strengthens legal protections against malicious use of deepfake technology.
• SB 981: Requires social media platforms to implement reporting mechanisms for deepfake nudes, enabling users to flag potentially harmful content. Platforms are then required to temporarily block such content while investigating its authenticity, with the option to permanently remove it if confirmed as a deepfake.

AI-Generated Robocalls: Transparency and Accountability

Governor Newsom has also taken steps to address the growing problem of AI-generated robocalls. The governor signed AB 2905 into law, requiring robocalls to disclose whether they use AI-generated voices. This measure aims to combat the spread of deceptive calls that have become increasingly prevalent.

AI-Generated Content: Ensuring Transparency and Disclosure

Governor Newsom is pushing for greater transparency in the use of AI for content creation. SB 942, signed into law by the governor, requires widely used AI systems to disclose their AI-generated nature in the content's provenance data. This measure empowers users to identify AI-generated content and make informed decisions about its legitimacy.

Election Deepfakes: Protecting Electoral Integrity

Governor Newsom has recognized the potential for AI-generated deepfakes to disrupt elections and has taken action to safeguard electoral integrity. California's new laws aim to prevent the spread of deepfakes that could mislead voters.

• AB 2655: Requires large online platforms to remove or label AI deepfakes related to elections, and to provide reporting mechanisms for such content.
• AB 2839: Targets social media users who post or repost AI deepfakes that could deceive voters about upcoming elections. The law went into effect immediately, with potential implications for individuals like Elon Musk who have shared such content.
• AB 2355: Mandates full disclosure for AI-generated political advertisements, ensuring voters are aware of the use of AI technology in campaign messaging.

Actors and AI: Protecting Performers' Rights

Governor Newsom signed two bills into law that address the use of AI in the entertainment industry, safeguarding the rights of performers.

• AB 2602: Requires studios to obtain permission from actors before creating AI-generated replicas of their voice or likeness. This law recognizes the need for performers to control their digital representations.
• AB 1836: Prohibits studios from creating digital replicas of deceased performers without consent from their estates. This law respects the legacy of deceased performers and ensures their estates have a say in how their likeness is used.

SB 1047: A Broader Framework for AI Regulation

Governor Newsom is also considering SB 1047, a more comprehensive bill that seeks to address the broader implications of AI development. This bill has sparked much public debate, with Governor Newsom stating that he wants to strike a balance between addressing potential AI risks and fostering innovation in the AI industry.

• The governor acknowledged the challenges in creating an effective AI regulatory framework, recognizing the need to distinguish between demonstrable and hypothetical risks associated with AI.
• Newsom is taking a cautious approach, aiming to implement practical solutions that address the most pressing concerns while encouraging responsible development in the AI field.

Governor Newsom's Legacy in AI Policy

Governor Newsom's actions have positioned California as a global leader in AI regulation. The state's approach, which balances protection with innovation, has become a model for other jurisdictions grappling with the implications of AI.

• The state's focus on AI ethics and responsible development has garnered praise from advocates, policymakers, and industry leaders alike.
• California's AI laws serve as a blueprint for other jurisdictions seeking to create a framework for ethical and responsible AI development.