UPDATE – DECEMBER 2025:
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed House Bills 5141, 5143, 5144, and 5145 into law in early June 2025, establishing the state’s first statutory framework for the use of artificial intelligence in political campaigns. As a result, the laws require AI-generated political ads to include clear disclosures, criminalize deceptive uses of synthetic media, and introduce sentencing guidelines for repeat offenders. Currently, the legislation is now in effect.
ORIGINAL NEWS STORY:
Michigan Enacts Legislation Regulating AI in Political Campaigns
In an update to a post we brought you in October, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed into law a comprehensive package of bills aimed at addressing the use of AI in political campaigns within the state. Consequently, the legislation, consisting of House Bills 5141, 5143, 5144, and 5145, establishes regulations, restrictions, and disclosure requirements to govern the application of AI in political advertising.
Key Provisions of the Legislation
- House Bill 5141 — Disclosure requirement: Mandates that political advertisements generated by AI explicitly disclose the use of AI.
- House Bill 5143 — Definition of AI: Establishes a legal definition of artificial intelligence under the Michigan Campaign Finance Act.
- House Bill 5144 — Criminalization of deceptive synthetic media: Makes it a criminal offense to knowingly distribute AI-generated media with intent to deceive.
- House Bill 5145 — Felony sentencing guidelines: Introduces enhanced sentencing guidelines for repeat violations of House Bill 5144 within a five-year period.
In a press release from the Governor’s Office, state Representative Matthew Bierlein, sponsor of House Bill 5143, emphasized the growing impact of AI on the electoral process and the importance of transparency as technology evolves. He also expressed support for bipartisan collaboration to address emerging risks related to AI in politics.
BABL AI Chief Ethics Officer Johana Davidovic provided insights on this topic during an NPR’s Detroit Today segment, discussing the implications of the new legislation.
Need Help?
For businesses seeking clarity on the implications of Michigan’s House Bills 5141–5145, BABL AI’s audit experts can provide guidance and tailored insights on this and other AI-related regulations.
