A.i. Synthetic Content Accountability Act
The act mandates that anyone creating or disseminating synthetic content must incorporate an imperceptible watermark to identify such content as synthetic and to detail the digital fingerprints linking it back to the provider. This inclusion of digital watermarking is aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability in digital content creation, which may help mitigate instances of fraud or misrepresentation stemming from AI-generated media. Furthermore, large online platforms must implement reasonable identity verification for users attempting to post content classified as synthetic.
House Bill 401, known as the Artificial Intelligence Synthetic Content Accountability Act, establishes new regulations surrounding synthetic content generated using artificial intelligence. The act aims to enhance accountability by implementing civil and criminal penalties for the improper use of synthetic content, particularly content that misrepresents or exploits individuals without their consent. It delineates 'covered synthetic content' while defining key terms pertinent to enforcement, such as generative artificial intelligence systems and digital identifiers.
Notably, the act opens discussions around freedom of expression and the potential risks of overreach in regulating digital content. Proponents argue that the bill protects individuals against malicious exploitation of their likeness, while critics raise concerns over its stringent requirements affecting artistic and expressive content creation. The bill navigates a contested landscape concerning digital rights, where the balance between ensuring personal agency and nurturing creative expression is intensely debated.
Enforcement of the act lies with the attorney general, who is granted the authority to issue civil investigative demands for compliance. Failure to adhere to the provisions can result in significant penalties, which includes fines and potential felony charges for malicious dissemination of synthetic content. The structure of penalties serves to deter potential violations, asserting the importance of responsible AI deployment in content production.