Ohio Takes Aim at AI-Generated Misinformation with New Legislation
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has brought with it incredible potential, but also a darker side: the proliferation of misinformation and deepfakes. Ohio lawmakers are stepping up to address this challenge with House Bill 185, a pioneering piece of legislation aimed at regulating AI-generated content and curbing the spread of deceptive media.
This bill tackles the growing concern surrounding deepfakes, synthetic audio or video clips created by generative AI that can convincingly portray individuals saying or doing things they never did. These manipulated media have become increasingly sophisticated and accessible, raising alarm bells about their potential for misuse in damaging reputations, spreading false narratives, and even influencing elections. The pervasiveness of readily available AI tools, whether free or inexpensive, has further amplified the risk, making it easier than ever to create and disseminate manipulated photos, videos, and audio.
Spearheaded by State Representative Ty Mathews (R-Findlay), House Bill 185 seeks to impose clear disclaimers on realistic AI-generated content, thereby alerting viewers to its artificial nature. The bill also establishes robust penalties for the unauthorized utilization of a person’s name, image, and likeness, offering legal recourse for victims of deepfake abuse. This aspect is particularly important, as it addresses scenarios where AI-generated content might be used for malicious purposes, such as creating fake explicit material featuring unsuspecting individuals or fabricating endorsements from public figures.
Dr. Denise Kinsey-Bergstrom, cybersecurity program chair at Franklin University, highlighted the scope of the issue. "We’re not just looking at static images," she explained. "We’re looking at all the AI that can be put behind something, whether it be voice, whether it be images, any kind of likeness or imagery." This comprehensive approach recognizes that AI manipulation can extend beyond visual media to encompass audio and potentially other forms of representation. Kinsey-Bergstrom noted the rapid advancement of AI technology, emphasizing its ability to create highly convincing reproductions based on available data.
The proposed legislation incorporates several key provisions designed to combat the misuse of AI technology. It mandates a clear watermark on all AI-manipulated content, ensuring that its artificial origin is readily apparent. This transparency is crucial in preventing viewers from mistaking manipulated content for genuine footage. The bill also introduces significant civil penalties, potentially reaching tens of thousands of dollars, for violations of these regulations. Moreover, the creation or distribution of malicious AI content designed for extortion would be classified as a third-degree felony, underscoring the severity with which Ohio lawmakers view this type of activity.
House Bill 185 builds upon existing legal frameworks like the federal Take It Down Act, which criminalizes revenge porn images, including deepfakes. While the Take It Down Act focuses on non-consensual sharing of intimate images, Ohio’s proposed legislation expands the scope to encompass a broader range of malicious AI-generated content. The bill aligns with federal efforts while tailoring its provisions specifically to the needs of Ohio citizens.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has voiced strong support for the bill, recognizing the escalating potential for AI misuse. “With this growth in availability comes the opportunity for bad actors to exploit artificial intelligence’s capabilities to deceive and defraud the public,” Yost stated in his written testimony. His endorsement underscores the bipartisan recognition of the urgency of this issue and the need for proactive measures to protect the public from AI-driven deception.
While legislation plays a critical role in addressing this challenge, individual responsibility is also essential. Kinsey-Bergstrom emphasized the importance of limiting what we share online, recognizing that the data we provide can be exploited by AI algorithms to create convincing fakes. This mindful approach to online activity is vital in mitigating the risks associated with AI manipulation.
House Bill 185 represents a significant step forward in the fight against AI-generated misinformation. By introducing regulations, penalties, and promoting public awareness, Ohio is taking a proactive stance in protecting its citizens from the potential harms of this rapidly evolving technology. The bill seeks to strike a balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding against the misuse of AI, ensuring that this powerful tool is used responsibly and ethically.