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. 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 for AI-Generated Political Ads
-Mandates that political advertisements generated by AI explicitly state the use of AI.
House Bill 5143: Definition of AI Under the Michigan Campaign Finance Act
-Provides a legal definition for AI within the context of the Michigan Campaign Finance Act.
House Bill 5144: Criminalization of Distributing AI-Generated Media to Deceive
-Declares it a criminal offense for an individual to knowingly distribute AI-generated media with the intent to deceive.
House Bill 5145: Felony Sentencing Guidelines
-Introduces felony sentencing guidelines for individuals who violate House Bill 5144 on multiple occasions 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 impact of AI on the electoral process and the importance of transparency as technology evolves. He expressed readiness for bipartisan collaboration to address emerging concerns 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.
For businesses seeking clarity on the implications of Michigan’s House Bills 5141-5145, BABL AI‘s team of Audit Experts is available to offer guidance. They can provide tailored insights into this regulation and other AI-related regulations, addressing specific questions and concerns related to your business.
