Bill > HB2137

This bill aims to protect individuals from the harmful misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) by prohibiting the knowing publication of realistic digital imitations of identifiable individuals without their consent when these imitations are used in advertisements, cause harm (such as reputational damage or financial loss), or are used to commit crimes like fraud or defamation. AI is defined as a machine-based system that makes predictions or decisions based on perceived environments and analyzed data. A "digital imitation" refers to a highly realistic AI-generated depiction, audio, or video that mimics an individual's voice, face, or likeness, making them appear to have performed or appeared in a work they did not. The bill provides exceptions for content used for parody, satire, commentary, news reporting, historical or biographical representations, and advertisements for such content, provided the imitation is relevant. Individuals injured by unauthorized digital imitations can pursue civil remedies, including injunctions to stop distribution, monetary damages up to $25,000 per advertisement or actual damages, punitive damages if malice is proven, and recovery of legal fees. The Attorney General can also bring actions in cases of broad public interest or widespread harm. The bill also clarifies that it does not apply to the mere dissemination of third-party content by media platforms, nor does it affect existing federal protections for online platforms.