Source: Romano Law

Romano Law reports that the State of New York has taken a pioneering step by enacting a new legislative package aimed at regulating the use of artificial intelligence in the film and advertising industries. Effective as of January 1, 2026, these laws require clear and conspicuous disclosures whenever AI-generated synthetic media, including digital replicas of human actors, is used in commercial content. This initiative is designed to protect both creative professionals from unauthorized digital cloning and consumers from being misled by hyper-realistic synthetic imagery. New York is the first state to implement such specific sectoral transparency mandates, addressing long-standing concerns voiced by labor unions and consumer advocacy groups.

The legislation provides a legal framework for "digital replicas," defining them as computer-generated performances that are indistinguishable from the actual voice or likeness of a person. Under the new rules, any advertisement or cinematic production featuring such replicas must include a disclosure statement, ensuring the audience is aware of the artificial nature of the content. Failure to comply can result in significant civil penalties and potential lawsuits from affected individuals. By introducing these guardrails, New York aims to balance the rapid adoption of AI technology in the creative arts with ethical standards and fair representation, setting a potential blueprint for other states to follow in the coming years.