SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom has signed three significant pieces of legislation aimed at addressing the ethical concerns surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) and protecting Californians from the misuse of digitally manipulated content. These new laws impose requirements on AI developers and social media platforms to promote responsible technology use.
“Digital tools like AI have immense capabilities but can also be abused. We’re stepping up to protect Californians from threats like deepfakes, particularly those that are sexually explicit,” Newsom stated.
Legislative Measures
SB 942, introduced by Senator Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park), mandates that widely-used generative AI systems include provenance disclosures in their output. These disclosures will be detectable using free tools, enhancing transparency and accountability in AI-generated content.
“Individuals must know if content is AI-generated. This bill is a significant step forward, providing Californians with essential tools to navigate the digital landscape,” Becker said.
SB 926, introduced by Dr. Aisha Wahab (D-Hayward), criminalizes the creation and distribution of AI-generated sexually explicit images intended to cause emotional distress to the subjects depicted. Dr. Wahab emphasized the severe impact of digital sexual assault on victims, who are often women.
“The trauma inflicted by such deepfakes can have long-lasting consequences,” she remarked.
SB 981, also by Dr. Wahab, requires social media platforms to create mechanisms for users to report sexually explicit deepfakes of themselves. This law aims to empower individuals to protect their digital identities effectively.
“The everyday person lacks the celebrity status that allows for swift removal of harmful content. This legislation will help rebalance that power,” she stated.
Questions About Creator Support
While Newsom’s administration has taken steps to regulate AI, critics point out a disconnect between these initiatives and the broader treatment of creators in California. Many argue that the state’s policies have driven creators and tech companies away, raising questions about how Newsom can effectively advocate for their interests while implementing stricter regulations on AI. Some speculate whether his recent legislative push is a strategic move to boost his approval ratings amid concerns about being one of the state’s most disliked governors.
Political Context and Concerns
As Newsom navigates these legislative changes, some critics question whether his efforts are driven by a desire to bolster his approval ratings amid concerns about being one of the state’s most disliked governors. The timing of these bills raises speculation about whether Newsom is motivated by fears of not being reelected, especially as he faces growing scrutiny over his administration’s impact on creators and tech companies.
Earlier this week, Newsom also signed bills aimed at protecting performers’ digital likenesses and combating deepfake content in political contexts, further highlighting the state’s commitment to addressing these urgent issues
Earlier this week, Newsom also signed bills aimed at protecting performers’ digital likenesses and combating deepfake content in political contexts, further highlighting the state’s commitment to addressing these urgent issues.
As California, home to 32 of the world’s top AI companies, continues to lead in AI development, the challenge remains: balancing innovation with ethical responsibility while ensuring a supportive environment for creators in the digital age.