State Representative Yasmin Neal introduced House Bill 1603, the Georgia Entertainment Artificial Intelligence Accountability and Performer Protection Act, during the legislative session on Apr. 7. The bill aims to protect performers and strengthen safeguards for Georgia’s film and entertainment sector regarding artificial intelligence.
The legislation is intended to address concerns about how AI technology can affect actors, actresses, and production companies. It seeks to ensure that those working in the entertainment industry are not exploited by unauthorized uses of their likenesses while supporting studios that use AI responsibly.
“Artificial intelligence is here, and it can be a valuable tool, but we must ensure there are protections in place so actors and actresses are not taken advantage of,” said Rep. Neal. “We also want to support production companies and studios that properly request and use artificial intelligence in their productions. We must hold accountable those who misuse artificial intelligence against actors and other talent, while also supporting production studios and networks that use it properly with the proper releases and documentation in place.”
The proposed bill would require explicit written consent before a performer’s likeness could be created or distributed using AI-generated digital replicas. These replicas are defined as highly realistic electronic representations made or altered by computer systems that closely imitate a performer’s image or voice in recordings or transmissions. The measure would establish civil liability for violations, provide individuals with the right to sue over unauthorized uses, set contract rules involving digital replicas, ban platforms offering deepfake services without consent, and mandate transparency from production companies using AI.
Neal said she introduced HB 1603 this session so members of the film community could review its contents ahead of next year’s legislative process. She also hopes it will serve as an example for other states considering similar laws: “I have heard directly from members of the film community about this legislation, and it was important for me to get it drafted so everyone can review it as we prepare for next year,” added Rep. Neal. “I hope other states can use this bill as a model, and I encourage them to adopt it as a tool in their own states while we continue working to get it passed here in Georgia.”
In related context regarding state lawmakers’ backgrounds: Burns was elected as a Republican representative for Georgia’s 159th House District in 2005 after Ray Holland left office according to available records.
