Source: RochesterFirst

RochesterFirst reports on New York becoming the first state in the nation to enact specific laws focused on AI transparency and the protection of deceased individuals' likenesses against unauthorized digital resurrection. The legislation, signed into law on December 14, 2025, prohibits the commercial use of a deceased person's digital replica in films and advertising without the explicit consent of their estate or heirs. This provision addresses ethical concerns surrounding "digital necromancy" in the entertainment industry.

Furthermore, the law mandates that any film or advertisement distributed in New York that utilizes AI to generate realistic imagery must carry a visible disclaimer. This transparency requirement aims to inform audiences when they are viewing synthetic content versus captured reality. The article suggests that this "first-in-nation" status will likely pressure other states and the federal government to adopt similar protections for personality rights post-mortem.