Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

Illinois Senate Bill SB3248

Introduced

2/6/24

Refer

2/6/24

Caption

PROTECTS VOICE & IMAGES

Impact

If enacted, SB3248 would empower individuals with the right to take legal action against those who exploit their voice or likeness without consent. Specifically, the bill creates a private cause of action against any entity that distributes unauthorized digital replicas or personalized cloning services. For unauthorized usage, the bill prescribes remedies that involve substantial financial penalties, including damages of up to $50,000 for personalized cloning services and $5,000 for unauthorized digital publications, reflecting the serious implications of such violations. The introduction of these substantial damages suggests an effort to deter potential misuse in the rapidly evolving landscape of AI and digital media.

Summary

SB3248, titled the No Artificial Intelligence Fake Replicas And Unauthorized Duplications Act of 2024, aims to establish specific protections for individuals regarding their voice and likeness. The Act defines various important terms, including 'personalized cloning service' and 'digital voice replica', emphasizing each individual's property rights in their own likeness and voice. The legislation seeks to address the rising threats posed by advancements in artificial intelligence technologies, particularly the unauthorized replication and misappropriation of an individual's voice and likeness through deepfake methodologies and other digital technologies. Key findings in the bill highlight instances where AI-created content has led to significant ethical and privacy concerns, prompting the legislative response.

Contention

Despite the protective aims of SB3248, potential controversies are anticipated regarding the balance between regulatory enforcement and First Amendment rights. The bill includes provisions indicating that First Amendment defenses will be weighed against individual property interests. This introduces a layer of complexity as stakeholders consider scenarios where artistic expression might intersect with the unauthorized use of someone's likeness or voice. Furthermore, concerns may arise regarding the enforcement of such rights, the burden of proof required for violated claims, and the implications for digital content creators operating within the confines of this law.