What is the story about?
What's Happening?
Ohio Senate Bill 163, introduced by Senators Bill Blessing and Terry Johnson, aims to regulate the use of artificial intelligence in creating deepfakes. The bill proposes mandatory watermarks on AI-generated images to indicate their fabricated nature, making it a civil violation to remove these watermarks. Additionally, it criminalizes the creation or transmission of AI-generated depictions of minors and possession of simulated obscene material. The bill also seeks to expand the definition of identity fraud to include the use of a person's likeness for fraudulent purposes. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost supports the bill, emphasizing its importance in protecting individual liberties and safeguarding children.
Why It's Important?
The proposed legislation addresses growing concerns about the misuse of AI technology, particularly in creating deepfakes that can damage reputations and facilitate identity fraud. By requiring watermarks, the bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in AI-generated media. This could have significant implications for tech companies, potentially leading to increased regulatory compliance costs. The bill also highlights the tension between state-level regulations and the tech industry's resistance to such measures, underscoring the ongoing debate over AI governance.
What's Next?
The bill is currently under review by the Senate Judiciary Committee, having undergone three hearings. As discussions continue, stakeholders such as tech companies and advocacy groups may push for amendments to address liability concerns. The outcome of these deliberations could influence future state and federal AI regulations, setting precedents for how AI technologies are governed.
AI Generated Content
Do you find this article useful?
