Tennessee Governor proposes groundbreaking bill to protect musicians from AI misuse
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has announced plans to propose a bill aimed at protecting musicians and songwriters from the misuse of artificial intelligence technology. The move comes in response to concerns that emerging AI technologies can create “deepfakes” of artists, imitating their voices and creating similar works. Governor Lee hopes that Tennessee can become the first state in the nation to adopt such protections, setting a blueprint for the rest of the country. The legislation, known as the Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security (ELVIS) Act, aims to protect artists’ voices and will add their voices to the state’s Protection of Personal Rights law.
Bill seeks to prevent “deepfakes” and voice cloning of artists through AI technology
As artificial intelligence continues to develop, new technologies have emerged that can create “deepfakes” of musicians and songwriters. These deepfakes can imitate an artist’s voice and create similar works, potentially robbing and stealing an artist’s gift. Governor Lee recognizes the importance of AI technology but wants to ensure it is used responsibly and not to exploit artists. The proposed legislation aims to protect artists from the misuse of AI and prevent unauthorized recreations of their voices and likeness.
Tennessee aims to lead the way in protecting artists from AI exploitation
Governor Lee emphasized the importance of the music industry to Tennessee, which is known as the music capital of the world. With more workers in the music industry than any other state, it is crucial to protect artists from the negative impact of AI technology. The proposed legislation seeks to eliminate the threat posed by AI-generated deepfakes and ensure that artists’ unique voices and creative content are safeguarded. Governor Lee hopes that by leading the way in protecting artists, Tennessee can set a standard for other states to follow.
Proposed legislation receives widespread support from music industry leaders
The announcement of the proposed legislation was met with support from a wide range of music industry leaders. Representatives from industry groups, such as the Academy of Country Music, ASCAP, BMI, and the National Music Publishers’ Association, attended the announcement and showed their support for the bill. The Recording Academy CEO, Harvey Mason, Jr., commended the bipartisan and bicameral bill, stating that it will protect Tennessee’s creative community against AI deepfakes and voice cloning. The music industry, which contributes $5.8 billion to Tennessee’s gross domestic product, recognizes the importance of protecting artists from AI exploitation.
State and federal efforts combine to safeguard musicians from AI-generated threats
While Governor Lee’s proposed legislation focuses on protecting artists at the state level, efforts are also underway at the federal level to address AI-generated threats to musicians. In October 2023, senators introduced a draft federal bill called the “No Fakes Act,” which aims to protect the voice and visual likeness of individuals from unauthorized recreations using generative AI. Performers’ Rights Organization ASCAP is also advocating for musicians’ rights and engaging with Congress on the issue. Additionally, the U.S. Copyright Office is conducting a study on copyright and generative AI, with input from ASCAP and AI companies. The combination of state and federal efforts demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding musicians from the potential threats posed by AI technology.
In conclusion, Tennessee’s proposed legislation to protect musicians and songwriters from AI misuse is a groundbreaking move that aims to set a standard for the rest of the country. By addressing the potential dangers of AI-generated deepfakes, Governor Lee and other industry leaders are working to ensure that artists’ voices and creative content are safeguarded in the face of technological advancements. With widespread support from the music industry and combined efforts at both the state and federal levels, the proposed legislation represents a significant step in protecting musicians from AI-generated threats.
Analyst comment
Positive news: Tennessee Governor proposes groundbreaking bill to protect musicians from AI misuse
Short analysis: The proposed legislation aims to protect artists’ voices by preventing the creation of “deepfakes” and unauthorized recreations of their voices and likeness. With widespread support from the music industry, combined efforts at both state and federal levels, and Tennessee’s reputation as the music capital of the world, the market for musicians is likely to thrive with enhanced protection against AI exploitation.
