Artificial intelligence technology.
The bill will significantly impact current statutes relating to civil liability and false impersonation by integrating definitions related to synthetic content into existing law. Specifically, it amends Section 3344 of the Civil Code to treat synthetic voices or likenesses as equivalent to the actual persons they imitate when utilized without consent. This modernization of the law aims to protect individuals from the unauthorized use of their identity in conjunction with AI-generated content, aligning legal definitions with current technological realities.
Senate Bill 11, introduced by Senator Ashby on December 2, 2024, addresses the regulatory landscape surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, specifically those designed to create synthetic content. The bill requires that any person or entity selling or providing access to relevant AI technology must issue a consumer warning by December 1, 2026, indicating that misuse could lead to civil or criminal liability. Furthermore, the Department of Consumer Affairs is tasked with determining the form and content of this warning, ensuring transparency for consumers engaging with such technologies.
The discussions around SB 11 reveal notable points of contention. While proponents advocate for stronger consumer protections against the misuse of AI technologies, critics raise concerns about the bill imposing excessive burdens on technology providers, potentially stifling innovation. Furthermore, the bill's focus on AI's implications in court systems mandates that the Judicial Council evaluate evidence implications arising from AI-generated content, which underscores the complexity of integrating AI into legal frameworks.