The Tennessee House Banking and Consumer Affairs Subcommittee unanimously passed a new bill on February 13 aimed at safeguarding musicians from the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI).
Introduced by Governor Bill Lee in January 2024, the Securing Lookalike Voices and Images Act (HB 2091), also known as ELVIS, targets unethical uses of AI, particularly the unauthorized use of artists’ sound, image, and likeness.
ELVIS is designed to advocate for the state’s music community while extending its protections to all Tennessee residents. It has garnered support from key figures like state Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson and House Majority Leader William Lamberth. Nashville, being one of the primary music industry hubs in the US, particularly stands to benefit from this legislation. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) reports that Nashville's music industry contributes significantly to the local economy, generating billions in revenue annually.
The ELVIS Act holds significant implications for Tennessee's workforce, particularly those involved in the music industry. During the subcommittee meeting, testimonials were provided by prominent figures such as singer and actress Chrissy Metz, Nashville Songwriters Guild board member Jamie Moore, and Jessie Richard, Senior Vice President for Public Policy at the RIAA. Moore expressed concerns about the rapid development of generative AI and its potential to undermine the music industry, stressing the need for preventative measures.
Moore emphasized the importance of music in local culture and the economy and praised Tennessee for leading the charge in protecting creators. He highlighted the ELVIS Act as a pivotal step in safeguarding against unauthorized AI-generated recordings, thereby preserving the integrity of artistic work. Richard echoed these sentiments, noting that the ELVIS Act extends protection to all Tennesseans, underscoring the bill's inclusive nature.
The subcommittee's approval of the ELVIS Act aligns with broader efforts in the creative community to address concerns surrounding AI-generated content. Initiatives like the Stop Artificial Intelligence Fraud Act at the federal level reflect a growing awareness of the need for comprehensive protections for artists in the face of advancing AI technology.
