ELVIS Act Signed Into Law
• The bipartisan “Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security (ELVIS) Act” was formally signed into law on Thursday by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee. The ELVIS Act establishes strong protections for every person’s unique voice and likeness against unauthorized artificial intelligence (AI) deepfakes and voice clones.
“Fittingly named after one of the world’s most iconic voices, the ELVIS Act marks a history-defining moment — protecting us all from irresponsible and unethical AI. The Human Artistry Campaign applauds this strong, bipartisan effort to stop unauthorized AI-generated deepfakes and voice clones that steal essential parts of our individuality,” said Dr. Moiya McTier, Sr. Advisor to the Human Artistry Campaign, the global initiative for the advancement of responsible AI. She added, “The life’s work and irreplaceable contributions of the creative community to our culture deserve safeguards that allow AI technology to be used responsibly without violating anyone’s rights or appropriating their art.”
“What an amazing precedent to set for the state of Tennessee,” said Luke Bryan, five-time Entertainer of the Year and current American Idol judge. “The leaders of this are showing artists who are moving here following their dreams that our state protects what we work so hard for, and I personally want to thank all of our legislators and people who made this bill happen. It’s hard to wrap your head around what is going on with AI, but I know the ELVIS Act will help protect our voices.”
Harvey Mason, Jr., CEO of The Recording Academy, stated, “The Recording Academy celebrates the passage of the ELVIS Act as a groundbreaking achievement in the effort to protect human creators in the age of AI. This milestone represents the power of collaboration, and it was a privilege to work with our partners in the Human Artistry Campaign, Governor Lee, and the Tennessee state legislature to move the ELVIS Act forward. Today is just the beginning — as AI continues to develop, the Recording Academy and our members will continue to support meaningful legislation across the country that uplifts music people and human creativity.”
Mitch Glazier, RIAA Chairman & CEO, commented, “This incredible result once again shows that when the music community stands together, there’s nothing we can’t do. We applaud Tennessee’s swift and thoughtful bipartisan leadership against unconsented AI deepfakes and voice clones and look forward to additional states and the US Congress moving quickly to protect the unique humanity and individuality of all Americans.”
Pictured, (l-r): TN House Majority Leader William Lamberth (R-44); Luke Bryan; Governor Bill Lee, Country star Chris Janson; RIAA Chairman & CEO Mitch Glazier; & TN State Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-27). [Photo credit: Getty Images for Human Artistry Campaign]
