YouTube Backs No Fakes Act As Congress Ramps Up Fight Against AI

As AI-generated content becomes increasingly realistic, lawmakers and major platforms are joining forces to combat the misuse of this powerful technology. On Wednesday, YouTube officially endorsed the No Fakes Act, a bipartisan bill that aims to outlaw the unauthorized creation and distribution of digital likenesses and voice clones. Originally introduced in 2023 by Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), the bill would make it illegal to release computer-generated replicas of a person without their consent.

The act has quickly gained momentum in Hollywood and the music industry. Influential groups like SAG-AFTRA and the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) have rallied behind it, citing growing concerns about AI impersonation and the erosion of creative control. The Motion Picture Association, representing major studios, also backs the bill, especially after exceptions were made for historical recreations.

YouTube’s endorsement is especially significant given its vast content ecosystem and history with copyright enforcement. In a blog post, YouTube emphasized the importance of a notice-and-takedown system—similar to current copyright laws—which would allow platforms to act on deepfakes only after being notified. This approach protects platforms from liability while empowering individuals to police the misuse of their likeness.

“YouTube’s stance is all about balance—protecting individual rights while still allowing space for innovation,” said Sen. Coons. This echoes YouTube’s ongoing efforts, including a pilot program using a version of its Content ID to detect and remove AI deepfakes. High-profile creators like MrBeast and Mark Rober are already participating in the trial.

While some states like California and Tennessee have already implemented their own deepfake laws, the No Fakes Act would unify the legal framework on a federal level—though it won’t override existing laws, only prevent future conflicting legislation.

As AI continues to transform digital content creation, this proposed legislation could mark a critical turning point in protecting artists, creators, and everyday users from being digitally cloned without consent.

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Source: Variety

Photo Credit: AI