Hollywood Rallies Behind Schiff’s AI Copyright Protection Bill

Hollywood Rallies Behind Schiff’s AI Copyright Protection Bill

Date: April 9, 2024 Adam B. Schiff

In an unprecedented move, Hollywood’s most influential unions and guilds are banding together in support of a groundbreaking bill. Spearheaded by Rep. Adam Schiff, the Generative AI Copyright Disclosure Act seeks to chart a new course in the realm of copyright law, focusing specifically on the challenges and opportunities presented by Artificial Intelligence (AI). This legislation, aimed at protecting human creativity and intellectual property in the digital age, has garnered support from the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAGAFTRA), the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), the Writers Guild of America (WGA), and the Directors Guild of America (DGA).

Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, serving as SAGAFTRA’s National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator, played a pivotal role in rallying support for the bill. He highlighted the critical need to ensure that advancements in technology, particularly AI, do not undermine human creativity but instead work to benefit it. This legislative effort represents a key milestone in the ongoing dialogue on how to effectively balance innovation with the preservation of artists’ rights.

The introduction of the Generative AI Copyright Disclosure Act by Rep. Schiff, a Democrat from California, underscores the increasing awareness and concern among lawmakers and industry stakeholders about the potential impacts of AI on creative industries. As AI technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the need for robust legal frameworks to safeguard intellectual property rights has never been more pressing. This collaborative effort between Hollywood and Capitol Hill signifies a significant commitment to maintaining the integrity and value of human creativity in an age dominated by technological advancements.