Gov. Hochul Signs Union-Backed A.I. Bills at SAG-AFTRA New York Office

Gov. Kathy Hochul visited the SAG-AFTRA New York Local office yesterday to sign groundbreaking legislation that strengthens individual rights and consumer protections. The Governor signed S.8391/A.8882 and S.8420-A/A.8887-B, two bills championed by SAG-AFTRA that safeguard both performers and the public from unauthorized or deceptive A.I. uses.

S.8391/A.8882 prohibits the use of a digital replica of a deceased personality’s voice or likeness in an expressive audiovisual work without prior consent, and S.8420-A/A.8887-B requires advertisers to disclose when a digitally created “synthetic performer” is used in advertisements. Together, the bills provide meaningful, enforceable protections that mitigate performance replacement, prevent consumer deception and affirm the continued value of human performance.

“The fact that Governor Hochul chose our New York Local office for this signing speaks volumes. It shows that SAG-AFTRA is leading, not just participating, in the movement to protect workers from the dangers of using A.I. for bad purposes. New York has always been a home for artists, and today it stands as a model for how to safeguard not only our members, but the broader public,” said Ezra Knight, SAG-AFTRA New York Local President.

“Today’s signing is a milestone for every performer whose work, likeness and voice deserve respect and protection. These bills recognize that technology must serve humanity, not replace it or exploit it. New York has set a powerful example for the nation, and SAG-AFTRA is proud to have helped lead the way,” said SAG-AFTRA Chief Labor Policy Officer and New York Local Executive Director Rebecca Damon. Read more about the new measures here!