Tennessee’s recent move to safeguard musicians’ voices and likenesses from artificial intelligence (AI) exploitation has garnered widespread praise from industry figures and advocates alike. The state’s new legislation, known as the Ensuring Likeness, Voice, and Image Security Act, or “ELVIS Act,” adds vocal likeness to the existing protections for name, photographs, and likeness, setting a significant precedent for artist rights.
Luke Bryan commends Tennessee’s initiative.
Country music star Luke Bryan expressed his appreciation for the ELVIS Act at a celebration event held at Nashville’s Robert’s Western World. Bryan hailed the legislation as a crucial step in protecting the hard-earned work of artists, particularly amidst the evolving landscape of AI technology.
The ELVIS Act, passed unanimously in the Tennessee General Assembly, introduced a new civil action to hold accountable those who publish or perform an individual’s voice without consent. It extends protections to artists’ names, photographs, voices, and likenesses, emphasizing the importance of authorization in their usage.
National recognition and industry support
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee emphasized the state’s commitment to safeguarding its artistic heritage in the face of technological advancements. The legislation has garnered praise from various quarters, including SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, who lauded Governor Lee’s leadership in implementing significant protections against AI misuse.
The naming of the legislation after the legendary Elvis Presley underscores its significance in combating the unauthorized exploitation of artists’ likenesses, even after their passing. The ELVIS Act stands as a model for other states grappling with similar issues, offering comprehensive protections for artists across various mediums.
Ongoing debate and congressional action
The ELVIS Act comes at a time when similar AI legislation is under consideration in Congress. Testimonies from musicians like Lainey Wilson shed light on the urgent need to address AI-generated materials’ potential misuse, highlighting the personal and financial ramifications for artists and individuals alike.
Wilson’s testimony emphasized the broader societal implications of AI misuse beyond the realm of celebrity, highlighting the need for comprehensive protections to safeguard against deepfake porn and financial scams targeting vulnerable populations. The ELVIS Act serves as a crucial step towards ensuring responsible AI use and protecting individuals’ dignity and rights.
Tennessee’s ELVIS Act marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to protect artists’ rights in the face of advancing AI technology. With bipartisan support and industry recognition, the legislation sets a precedent for comprehensive legal protections against unauthorized exploitation. As similar debates unfold on the national stage, the ELVIS Act stands as a beacon of progress toward safeguarding individuals’ voices, likenesses, and identities in an increasingly digital world.
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