freedom of speech
The proposal would require broadcasters to disclose whether artificial intelligence was used in their ads.
May 22, 2024 – Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission Jessica Rosenworcel announced the proposal on Wednesday If adopted, the bill will consider whether to introduce regulations that would require media companies to disclose their use of artificial intelligence in political advertising.
The proposal would seek consumer input on whether broadcasters should make on-air or written disclosures when AI is used. Additionally, the proposal would seek comment on the specific definition of AI-generated content.
To increase transparency, the proposal would require on-air and written disclosure in stations’ political files about AI-generated content in political ads, apply the rules to candidate and print ads, and also apply the requirements to programming entities, which consist of broadcast stations and cable operators, as well as satellite television and radio providers.
Rosenworcel clarified that the lawsuit “does not propose a ban on such content, only the disclosure of AI-generated content within political ads.”
“As artificial intelligence tools become more accessible, the European Commission wants to ensure that consumers are fully informed when the technology will be used,” Rosenworcel said, adding that his proposal It added that it “clarifies consumers’ right to know when artificial intelligence tools are being used.” The political ads they see. ”
The FCC said in a statement that because the use of AI is rapidly increasing, increased use of artificial intelligence in political advertising could potentially mislead voters. of Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act Gives the FCC the power to regulate political advertising.
think tank Public Knowledge issues statement Following a motion to express support for the motion. “It is heartening to see the European Commission taking the first steps towards rules that protect our democracy and national dialogue.”
It added that “while disclosures and watermarks are not a silver bullet against disinformation, applying them to political advertising on these important communications channels is a common-sense measure to protect an important public interest and prevent deceptive political advertising.”
