A new bill aimed at protecting Tennessee musicians from the unethical use of artificial intelligence made headlines Tuesday when it unanimously passed the Tennessee House Banking and Consumer Affairs Subcommittee.
The bill, called the Similarity Sound and Image Security (ELVIS) Act – HB 2091, is being sponsored on behalf of the state’s music creators, but would apply to all Tennesseans. As advances in artificial intelligence continue, deepfakes and the unauthorized use of artists’ voices and likenesses are more prevalent than ever.
more:See how artificial intelligence is manifesting itself in Nashville’s songwriting room
This law protects an individual’s voice, image, and likeness from the irresponsible use of AI technology.
Last month, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee introduces bill Along with state Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-27) and House Majority Leader William Lamberth (R-44).
The subcommittee on Tuesday heard testimony from singer and actress Chrissy Metz, Songwriters Director Jamie Moore, and RIAA SVP of Public Policy Jesse Richard.
Industry experts explained the importance of protection against unethical AI use, not just for creative artists but for everyone.
“I can attest to the widespread pain and fear in the creative community,” Metz told the subcommittee. […] Not to mention, our entire personalities and reputations can be destroyed in an instant by unexplainable deepfakes.
“I fully support free speech, and it is appropriate that this bill preserves all First Amendment rights. The use of human voices should not be allowed.”
Richard said: “It’s worth emphasizing that the ELVIS Act applies to everyone. All Tennesseans have the right to have their voice and likeness protected, and this bill will ensure just that.”
The bill’s passage within the subcommittee also follows a national movement to crack down on AI. Rainie Wilson and Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. and his nearly 300 other creators co-sign and support a bill with federal protections called the “AI Fraud Act” shared.
Mr. Wilson also testified before Congress on February 2, stating: ”I don’t need you to tell me how shocking it is to have your name, likeness, and voice taken away from you and used in ways you can never imagine or ever forgive. That’s wrong, plain and simple. ”
You can watch the subcommittee unanimously pass the ELVIS Act here (30:36 mark).
