California passes law requiring consent for AI use of dead artists

The California Senate has passed a bill requiring permission to use the likenesses of dead artists for AI-created digital replicas.

SAG-AFTRA was among the organizations that championed the legislation as a means to help the estates of deceased artists maintain some control over AI-created forgeries and replicas of famous figures. The union was quick to announce the passage of AB 1836 in a statement after the Senate debated the bill during an unusual Saturday session.

The passage of AB 1836, now awaiting Governor Gavin Newsom’s signature, comes four days after the Senate passed AB 2602, which tightens consent requirements for the use of AI to replicate living artists.

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“For those who would use the digital replicas of deceased artists in movies, TV shows, video games, audiobooks, sound recordings and more, without first getting permission from those artists’ estates, the California Senate simply said NO,” SAG said -AFTRA. in a statement. “AB 1836 is another victory in SAG-AFTRA’s ongoing strategy to enhance artist protections in a world of generative artificial intelligence. The passage of this bill, along with AB 2602 earlier this week, builds on our mosaic of protections in law and contract.”

SAG-AFTRA has been the leading advocate for the legislation in Sacramento. The language of both bills reflects protections the union built into its TV and film contract agreement with Hollywood’s major studios after a four-month strike last year.

“Both bills have been a legislative priority for the union, on behalf of our membership and beyond, mandating explicit consent in California. We look forward to these bills being signed by Governor Gavin Newsom,” SAG-AFTRA said.

There’s more to come