New bill in US requires AI companies to disclose use of copyrighted material

US Congressman Adam Schiff has introduced a bill that would oblige companies working with generative artificial intelligence to specify which copyrighted works they use in their datasets.

Here's What We Know

The bill titled "Generative AI Copyright Disclosure Act" (Generative AI Copyright Disclosure Act) aims to strike a balance between the potential of AI and the need to protect the rights of creators. According to Schiff, it "supports innovation while respecting the contributions of content creators."

Under the document, companies will be required to file data on the use of copyrighted works with the Register of Copyrights at least 30 days before releasing their AI tools. This will also extend to existing developments.

Violations of the disclosure requirement would be punishable by fines from the Copyright Office. The bill aims to provide transparency on the use of the materials, rather than banning their use for AI training.

The initiative is supported by entertainment industry organisations such as the RIAA, SAG-AFTRA and the WGA. They note that such measures are important to protect creators' rights in an era of rapid development of generative AI.

Cases of lawsuits for copyright infringement, such as those from the New York Times and some creators, demonstrate the need for such regulation. The bill could also help companies and artists better track the use of protected material.

Flashback

Regulation of artificial intelligence was a big sticking point in the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes last year. They only ended after detailed AI provisions were included in contracts.

SAG-AFTRA recently supported California bills requiring actors to consent to the use of their avatars and heirs to create AI versions of deceased people.

Musicians are supporting their peers. More than 200 artists signed an open letter in April calling for protection from AI. Billie Eilish, Jon Bon Jovi and Pearm Jam are among the signatories.

Source: Engagdget