Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB664

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/9/23
• Refer: 11/9/23
• Report Pass: 2/7/24
• Refer: 2/7/24
• Engrossed: 2/15/24
• Refer: 2/19/24
• Enrolled: 3/15/24
• Chaptered: 3/21/24
• Passed: 3/21/24

Caption

Disclosures regarding content generated by artificial intelligence in political advertisements, granting rule-making authority, and providing a penalty. (FE)

Impact

The introduction of AB664 is significant as it seeks to amend existing statutes related to political advertising. By instituting requirements for disclosures regarding AI-generated content, the bill aims to foster a more transparent political communication environment. This is especially relevant as voters increasingly encounter digitally created media. The bill provides rule-making authority to a designated commission, allowing for the establishment of ongoing regulations around this issue. Consequently, it has the potential to reshuffle how political campaigns utilize AI technologies while maintaining a degree of integrity in messaging.

Summary

Assembly Bill 664, also known as the Disclosures Regarding Content Generated by Artificial Intelligence in Political Advertisements, seeks to implement transparency measures in political communications that utilize artificial intelligence (AI) generated content. The bill mandates that any political advertisement, whether audio or video, containing synthetic media must disclose this information. Specifically, it requires the inclusion of clear labels indicating the presence of AI-generated content. Such measures aim to inform the audience about the nature of the media they are consuming, particularly given the growing prevalence of AI in political discourse.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding AB664 appears to be largely positive among proponents who view the bill as a crucial step in safeguarding electoral integrity and ensuring that voters are not misled by sophisticated AI technologies. Supporters argue that transparency is essential in political discourse, particularly as AI capabilities advance and become more widespread in the media landscape. However, there may be concerns from some quarters regarding the feasibility of enforcement and the implications for political creativity and expression.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention may revolve around the bill's impact on creative freedom in political advertisements and the practicality of its enforcement. Critics may argue that strict disclosure requirements could hinder innovative campaign strategies or that the definitions of 'synthetic media' could be too broad, leading to confusion or unnecessary penalties for political communicators. The debate may particularly focus on balancing the need for transparency with the rights of political entities to creatively express their messages without over-regulation.