New federal law would give people the right to sue over AI voice and face fakes

What does this do?

HR 8915 establishes a federal right for every person to control whether their voice or face can be copied by AI without permission. Anyone who creates or shares an unauthorized AI-generated likeness can be sued for damages. The right lasts up to 70 years after death, and any license to use someone's AI likeness must be written, specific, and no longer than 10 years while the person is alive.

Who does it affect?

All living individuals, as well as families and estates of deceased persons, gain enforceable rights under this law. AI developers, social media platforms, and anyone creating or distributing AI-generated likenesses face new legal obligations and liability.

Why does it matter?

Platforms that fail to remove unauthorized AI fakes after notification and ignore registration requirements with the Copyright Office lose their liability shield and face fines up to $750,000 per fake posted. News reporting, criticism, satire, and parody are generally exempt, but no exemption applies to sexually explicit content using someone's fake likeness.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Up to $750,000 fine per fake posted
• Compliant platforms shielded from suits
• No proactive scanning required