On July 1, 2024, the ELVIS Act in Tennessee became enforceable which seeks to protect artists and musicians from generative AI misuse. Generative AI can create music imitating the voices of famous singers.
Here are the key points of this legislation:
- The law grants property rights to an individual’s name, voice, image, and likeness, aiming to combat generative AI that mimics famous personalities.
- The Act prohibits the unauthorized commercial use of voices and tools facilitating such use, with penalties for offenders.
- Unlike other states, Tennessee’s law extends protection to both living and deceased individuals across all mediums.
Who does it apply to: anyone using AI to mimic another person’s voice
When does it become effective: July 1, 2024
What does it do: The law extends current commercial appropriate law (regarding the unauthorized commercial use of a person’s name, image or likeness) to include an individual’s voice
Why was this law created: To protect Tennessee’s music industry which is a significant part of Tennessee’s GDP at $5.8 billion
Potential Problems (or the law of unanticipated consequences which should have been anticipated): the Act’s broad language raises jurisdictional and free speech concerns, reflecting the need for federal legislation to address AI misuse and establish a consistent framework for protecting individuals’ rights, especially in light of the fact that federal law preempts state copyright law.