David Shepardson
WASHINGTON (Reuters) – U.S. Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel on Wednesday proposed requiring disclosure of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated content in political ads on radio and television.
Rosenworcel is asking his colleagues to vote on a proposed rule that would require disclosure of AI content in both candidate ads and advertisements, but does not propose banning any AI-generated content in political advertising.
The rule would apply to cable, satellite and radio operators, but the FCC does not have the authority to regulate advertising on the Internet or social media. The agency has already taken steps to combat the misleading use of AI in political robocalls.
There is growing concern in Washington that artificial intelligence-generated content could mislead voters in the November presidential and congressional elections. Some senators want to pass legislation by November to address AI threats to election integrity.
“As artificial intelligence tools become increasingly available, the commission wants to ensure that consumers are fully informed when this technology is being used,” Rosenworcel said in a statement, adding that the proposal “makes clear that consumers have a right to know when the tools are being used.” artificial intelligence.” in the political ads they see.”
The FCC said the use of artificial intelligence is expected to play a significant role in political advertising in 2024. She noted the potential for misleading “deep fakes,” which are “altered images, videos, or audio recordings that depict people doing or saying things they did not actually do or say, or events that did not actually occur.” happened.”
Artificial intelligence content in elections drew new attention in January after a fake robocall impersonating President Joe Biden tried to dissuade people from voting for him in the New Hampshire Democratic primary.
In February, the Federal Communications Commission said robocalls using voices generated by artificial intelligence are illegal. The declaratory judgment gave state attorneys general new tools to pursue the people behind robocalls, Rosenworcel said.
In 2023, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved a $5.1 million fine against conservative activists for making more than 1,100 illegal robocalls ahead of the 2020 US election.