Amidst the intensifying 2024 election landscape in the United States, Florida’s state government joins the fray by considering regulation of AI in political advertisements. Sponsored by State Senator Nick DiCeglie, Senate Bill 850: Use of Artificial Intelligence in Political Advertising, was introduced late last year and officially introduced to lawmakers on January 9.

The bill’s primary objective is to enhance transparency concerning the utilization of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in crafting content for political ads. It mandates that any political advertisement, electioneering communication, or other political promotion leveraging generated AI content prominently feature the disclaimer: “Created in whole or in part with the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI).” This requirement applies under specific conditions:

• The advertisement features AI-generated content, including images, videos, audio, text, or other digital elements.

• The generated content portrays a realistic scenario that did not transpire.

• The content aims to harm a candidate’s reputation or deceive voters regarding a ballot issue.

• Failure to include the mandatory disclaimer on applicable ads could result in misdemeanor charges, punishable by fines or imprisonment.

The bill also establishes procedures for filing complaints about missing disclaimers with the Florida Elections Commission. The commission is tasked with devising rules for expediting complaint hearings. Cases referred to the Division of Administrative Hearings must be assigned an administrative law judge to facilitate an accelerated hearing process. If enacted, the legislation would take effect on July 1 of the current year.

So far the bill has garnered interest from several lawmakers in committee, but it has a while to go before the Florida House and Senate eventually approve the bill, before sending it to Governor Ron DeSantis’ desk for consideration.

It’s tough keeping track of the AI regulatory landscape, especially when you have questions and concerns. Consider reaching out to BABL AI, their team of Audit Experts is ready to offer valuable insight.