Two bipartisan senators, Brian Schatz and John Kennedy, have introduced a bill called the AI Labeling Act, which aims to combat scams that use artificial intelligence (AI) to deceive people. The proposed legislation would require warning labels to be attached to content created using AI, including videos, articles, and chatbots, in order to inform users that they are interacting with AI-generated content.
Schatz, a Democrat from Hawaii, stated that the purpose of the bill is to prevent people from being fooled or scammed by AI-generated content. He highlighted examples such as fake images and scam calls impersonating loved ones’ voices as dangerous content that the bill aims to diminish.
The senators’ bill proposes giving the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) the authority to enforce the AI labeling rules. Violations would be subject to fines, similar to penalties for other forms of deception under existing law.
While the use of AI-manipulated images and audio can raise concerns about the spread of misinformation, some government officials see potential benefits in utilizing AI tools. For instance, New York Mayor Eric Adams has used AI to communicate with constituents in languages he doesn’t speak. The mayor’s office revealed that Adams used AI to make robocalls in Spanish and Mandarin.
However, crafting AI rules that address content concerns while preserving free speech rights will be a challenge for Congress. Implementing such regulations will also come at a cost, according to Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer.
Regarding AI regulation, Schumer emphasized the need to strike a balance between fostering AI development and minimizing the potential harm, including racial and gender bias that can be associated with it. He held private forums to discuss AI with tech experts, including prominent figures such as Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg, to gain insights into the pitfalls and potential of AI.
The senators’ bill is one of the many efforts being made to address the issue of AI-generated content and its impact on society. As AI continues to advance, establishing clear guidelines and labeling systems is crucial to ensure transparency and protect people from scams and misinformation.
