Wisconsin lawmakers are considering new regulations regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in elections and are also discussing the outlawing of certain AI-produced images. These proposals come in response to the increased use of AI technology in political campaigns and concerns about the potential for manipulation and disinformation. The measures include requirements for disclaimers in AI-generated political ads, penalties for manufacturing and possessing AI-generated images of child sexual abuse, and a review of how state agencies use AI.
The bipartisan proposal set to be voted on by the Wisconsin Assembly would mandate political candidates and groups to include disclaimers in advertisements that use AI technology. Violators would face a fine of $1,000. Several organizations, including the League of Women Voters and the state’s newspaper and broadcaster associations, have registered their support for the measure. No opposition has been registered thus far.
Another Republican-authored proposal would make it a felony punishable by up to 25 years in prison to manufacture and possess images of child sexual abuse produced with AI technology. Current state laws already address this issue, but they do not specifically cover digital representations of children. As with the previous bill, no groups have registered against this proposal.
Additionally, a third bill currently on the Assembly’s agenda calls for auditors to review the utilization of AI by state agencies. The measure would also give agencies until 2030 to develop plans for reducing their positions. By 2026, the agencies would need to report to legislators on which positions AI could optimize and their progress in implementing these changes. Republican Representative Nate Gustafson clarified that the goal of the bill is to find efficiencies in the face of worker shortages rather than replacing human workers with AI technology.
The use of AI in elections has generated both fascination and concern. Generative AI tools, which include image generators and chatbots, have been employed by political campaigns in the United States and around the world. Some campaign advertisements have utilized AI-generated audio or imagery, amplifying the need for regulation and oversight in this field.
Regulating AI has become a priority for many states, with at least 25 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia introducing artificial intelligence bills last year alone. Some states, such as Texas, North Dakota, West Virginia, and Puerto Rico, have established advisory bodies to study AI systems used by state agencies. Louisiana has formed a security committee to investigate how AI impacts state operations, procurement, and policy.
Earlier this month, the Federal Communications Commission banned robocalls that utilize AI-generated voices. This action followed instances of AI-generated robocalls mimicking President Joe Biden’s voice in an attempt to discourage voting during New Hampshire’s primary election in January.
It is worth noting that the Biden administration issued guidelines for using AI technology in 2022, but these guidelines are not legally binding. As of yet, Congress has not passed any federal legislation addressing the regulation of AI in political campaigns.
In conclusion, lawmakers in Wisconsin are taking steps to regulate AI in elections and address concerns surrounding certain AI-generated images. These proposals aim to ensure transparency in political ads, protect against the production and possession of AI-generated child sexual abuse material, and review the use of AI by state agencies. As AI continues to advance and play a larger role in society, the need for consistent and effective regulation becomes increasingly apparent.
