California has set a new precedent in the entertainment industry by enacting two groundbreaking laws aimed at protecting actors from unauthorized use of AI-generated digital replicas. Read more details about the bills inside.

Great news for performers in the entertainment industry. Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed AB 1836 and AB 2602, both designed to safeguard performers’ rights amid growing concerns over artificial intelligence in Hollywood.

The first law, AB 1836, offers posthumous protection by requiring the approval of an estate before recreating a deceased individual using AI. This regulation ensures that a person’s likeness cannot be digitally resurrected for films, TV shows, or advertisements without proper consent from their heirs. The other bill Newsom signed, AB 2602, specifically focuses on the rights of living performers. The bill makes it illegal for contracts to permit the use of AI-generated replicas to replace actors without their explicit consent.

These laws are the first of their kind in the U.S., representing a significant victory for performers and their unions, including SAG-AFTRA, which has been vocal in its opposition to unauthorized AI usage in film and television. What sets California’s approach apart is that it applies to all residents, not just union members, offering broader protection to actors and performers across the state.

The passage of these laws comes at a critical time as industries, including video games, grapple with the increasing growth of AI. Ongoing labor disputes highlight the need for clear regulation, and California’s leadership could influence future federal protections like the No Fakes Act, which is currently being discussed at the national level.

As AI continues to evolve, California’s new legislation strikes a balance between embracing innovation and ensuring that performers maintain control over their digital identities. It sets a new standard in entertainment, ensuring that technology is used ethically and with consent.

Comment your thoughts on these new bills below.