Wisconsin has taken a proactive stance in regulating the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in campaign materials. In an effort to address the growing concerns surrounding AI-generated deepfakes, the state legislature passed two bills aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability in election communications.
The first bill, AB 664, requires all audio and video content created using AI to be labeled as such. This labeling serves to inform voters that the content they are viewing or listening to has been generated by artificial intelligence. Violators of this regulation could face penalties of up to $1,000 per offense. The goal of this bill, according to Democrat Rep. Clinton Anderson, is to help voters distinguish between authentic and AI-generated content.
The second bill, AB 1068, mandates Wisconsin state agencies to conduct audits on the usage of AI tools. These audits will evaluate the efficiency of AI technologies being used, including inventory management, guideline summaries, privacy policies, and data usage. Additionally, state agencies are required to report to the legislature in 2026 on positions that could be optimized by AI, with the aim of implementing AI technologies to improve efficiency by 2030.
These legislative efforts come in response to the increasing use of AI in election campaigns, both at the state and national levels. With the rise of advanced generative AI tools, such as voice-cloning software and image generators, the line between reality and manipulation has become increasingly blurred. By imposing regulations on AI-generated campaign materials, Wisconsin seeks to ensure transparency and integrity in the electoral process.
The move by Wisconsin is part of a broader trend, with 20 other states also introducing or passing similar laws to address the proliferation of deepfakes in campaign communications. States like California and New York, home to some of the biggest AI tech giants, have been at the forefront of this legislative push. Additionally, the Federal Communications Commission recently banned AI-generated robocalls that mimic the voices of political candidates, further underscoring the need to regulate AI technology in the political sphere.
As concerns grow over the potential misuse of AI in elections, the debate around balancing technological innovation with ethical considerations continues. While AI offers new possibilities for engaging voters and creating compelling campaign materials, it also raises critical questions about the authenticity and trustworthiness of such content. By enacting laws to address these challenges, states like Wisconsin are taking proactive steps to safeguard the integrity of their electoral processes.
