US bill proposes AI companies to disclose copyrighted materials used

The debate over using copyrighted materials in AI training systems continues, with uncertainty lingering about the sources from which AI retrieves data. US Congressman Adam Schiff has taken steps to address this issue by introducing the Generative AI Copyright Disclosure Act on April 9, as reported by Billboard. The proposed bill would compel AI companies to disclose each copyrighted work present in their datasets.

Championing Ethical Guidelines and Protections

Congressman Schiff emphasized the disruptive potential of AI in transforming various aspects of society, including the economy, politics, and daily life. He stressed the importance of striking a balance between leveraging the innovation AI offers and upholding ethical standards and protections for creators. The bill aims to ensure that creators are informed when their work is utilized in AI training datasets, promoting respect for creativity in the era of AI. Major organizations such as the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), SAG-AFTRA, and WGA have expressed their support for this legislation.

Enhancing Transparency and Accountability

If passed, the Generative AI Copyright Disclosure Act would require companies to submit comprehensive data on their use of copyrighted material to the Register of Copyrights at least 30 days before launching AI tools publicly. Additionally, companies would need to disclose this information retroactively for existing tools and make updates if significant changes were made to the datasets. Failure to comply could result in fines imposed by the Copyright Office, varying based on the company’s size and past violations. While the bill does not restrict AI creators from using copyrighted content, it aims to provide clarity regarding the sources of the materials utilized.

Support for AI Protections in the Entertainment Industry

The entertainment sector has been at the forefront of advocating for AI protections, with AI regulation becoming a pivotal issue during recent strikes involving SAG-AFTRA and WGA. These unions only reached resolutions after incorporating detailed AI policies into their contracts. SAG-AFTRA has endorsed California bills mandating consent from actors for the use of their avatars and from heirs for creating AI representations of deceased individuals. Notably, Congressman Schiff, an advocate for AI transparency, represents a district in California that includes prominent entertainment hubs.

Unified Call for AI Safeguards

Musicians have joined forces with other creatives in demanding safeguards against AI exploitation, as over 200 artists signed an open letter in April urging for stronger AI protections, as reported by The Guardian. The letter, issued by the Artist Rights Alliance, highlights the importance of protecting artists’ voices and creative rights from being exploited by AI technologies. Renowned artists such as Billie Eilish, Jon Bon Jovi, and Pearl Jam have lent their support to this cause.