FCC May Require Political Ads to Disclose AI-Generated Content

variety.com:

Todd Spangler NY Digital Editor The FCC is considering a new rule that would require the disclosure of the use of artificial intelligence in political ads — while the agency would not prohibit AI-generated content.

FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel on Wednesday announced a new agency proposal that, if adopted, would look into whether radio and TV broadcasters, cable TV operators and satellite TV providers should be required to disclose when there is AI-generated content in candidate or issue-oriented political ads.

The agency’s regulatory purview in this area does not extend to online streaming services. “As artificial intelligence tools become more accessible, the commission wants to make sure consumers are fully informed when the technology is used,” Rosenworcel (pictured above) said in a statement. “Today, I’ve shared with my colleagues a proposal that makes clear consumers have a right to know when AI tools are being used in the political ads they see, and I hope they swiftly act on this issue.” Last year, the Republican National Committee released an AI-generated attack ad depicting a dystopian future if President Biden is reelected in 2024 — featuring realistic-looking photos of boarded-up storefronts, military patrols in the streets and waves of immigrants creating panic.

The RNC’s ad did feature a disclosure that said, “An AI-generated look into the country’s possible future if Joe Biden is re-elected in 2024.” Concerns over the use of AI specifically to promulgate political misinformation go back years.