California passes law requiring consent for AI use of dead performers

The California state senate has passed a law requiring consent to use the likenesses of dead performers for AI-created digital replicas.

SAG-AFTRA was among the organizations supporting the legislation as a means to help the estates of deceased performers maintain some control over AI-created fakes and replicas of famous figures. The union was quick to announce the approval of AB 1836 in a statement after the Senate moved the bill into an unusual session on Saturday.

The passage of AB 1836, which now awaits Gov. Gavin Newsom’s signature, comes four days after the state Senate passed AB 2602, which tightens consent requirements for using AI to reproduce living artists.

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“To those who would use digital likenesses of deceased performers in movies, TV shows, video games, audiobooks, audio recordings and more without first getting those performers’ consent, the California Senate said NO,” SAG-AFTRA said . in a statement. “AB 1836 is another victory in SAG-AFTRA’s ongoing strategy to improve worker protections in a world of generative artificial intelligence. The passage of this bill, along with AB 2602 earlier this week, builds on our patchwork of protections in law and contract.”

SAG-AFTRA was the major champion of the legislation in Sacramento. The language of both laws reflects protections the union built into its master television and film agreement with major Hollywood studios after a four-month strike last year.

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

More to come