California Passes New Laws to Control AI Protect Workers and Combat Deepfakes

California lawmakers have approved new laws designed to regulate artificial intelligence (AI), ban misleading deepfake content, and protect workers from job losses due to AI technology. This legislation represents a major step by the state to manage the impact of new technology on elections, privacy, and employment.

The California Legislature, led by the Democratic Party, has been busy finalizing hundreds of bills this week, which need to be sent to Governor Gavin Newsom by Saturday. The governor has until September 30 to sign the bills, veto them, or allow them to become law without his signature. While Governor Newsom has shown support for a law that targets election-related deepfakes, he is also cautious about overregulating the tech industry, fearing it could slow down innovation.

What Are Deepfakes, and Why Are They a Concern?

Deepfakes are fake images or videos created using AI technology to mislead people. California’s new laws focus on cracking down on these fake images and videos, especially those that could impact elections. Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter will now be required to remove any deceptive deepfake content 120 days before an election and 60 days after. Political campaigns must also clearly disclose if they use AI to create or alter content in their advertisements.

The laws also target deepfake content depicting child sexual abuse. Previously, it was difficult to prosecute cases involving AI-generated child exploitation material because prosecutors had to prove that a real person was involved. The new laws make it illegal to create or share these images, and require tech companies to provide tools that detect harmful content created by AI.

California Leads in Setting AI Safety Standards

California is taking the lead in setting new safety standards for AI technology. One of the new laws requires companies developing AI tools to disclose the data used to train these models. This move aims to ensure fairness and transparency in the development of AI tools.

Another law requires state agencies to follow safety protocols to prevent discrimination or other risks before using AI tools in their operations. These protocols are designed to protect people from unfair treatment by AI, such as biased decisions made by automated systems.

Protecting Workers from AI Exploitation

Inspired by last year’s Hollywood actors’ strike, the new laws also aim to protect workers from losing their jobs to AI. They offer specific protections for voice actors, audiobook narrators, and other professionals whose jobs could be threatened by AI technologies. These laws ensure that workers cannot be replaced by digital versions of themselves without their consent.

The legislation also prevents state and local agencies from using AI to replace workers in call centers, protecting jobs that could be lost due to automation. Additionally, there could be penalties for creating digital versions of deceased people without the permission of their families.

Improving Public Understanding of AI

California is also taking steps to help the public better understand AI technology. One proposal suggests adding AI education to school curriculums, including subjects like math, science, and history. This effort aims to prepare students for a future where AI will play a significant role. Another proposal provides guidelines for schools on how to use AI tools ethically and effectively.

Striking a Balance Between Innovation and Safety

These new laws show California’s balanced approach to managing AI. While promoting technological growth and innovation, the state also aims to protect the public from potential risks, such as privacy violations, job losses, and misinformation.

As AI continues to advance, California's actions may serve as a model for other states and countries dealing with similar challenges. Stay informed with the latest updates on AI regulation and technology news at ishook finance.

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