OpenAI, Adobe, and Microsoft have shown support for a California bill, AB 3211, which would require tech companies to label AI-generated content with watermarks, according to letters obtained by TechCrunch.
The bill, which is moving towards a final vote in August, mandates that AI-generated photos, videos, and audio clips must include watermarks in their metadata. It also calls for large online platforms like Instagram and X to label AI-generated content clearly so that it is easily understood by the general public.
AB 3211 aims to increase transparency and authenticity in digital media, responding to the widespread use of AI in creating content. While many AI companies already use watermarks in metadata, the bill emphasizes that these labels should be more visible and comprehensible for everyday users. OpenAI, Adobe, and Microsoft are members of the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA), which developed the C2PA metadata standard, widely adopted for marking AI-generated content.
Previously, a trade group representing Adobe, Microsoft, and other major software companies opposed AB 3211 in April, labeling it “unworkable” and “overly burdensome.” However, amendments to the bill have led these companies to change their stance and now support the proposed legislation.
Elon Musk Voices Support for Separate AI Safety Bill
In a related matter, Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and founder of the AI company xAI, has voiced his support for another California bill, SB 1047, aimed at AI safety. SB 1047 would require developers of large AI models to create and document safeguards to prevent potential harm. Musk announced his backing on X, stating, “This is a tough call and will make some people upset, but, all things considered, I think California should probably pass the SB 1047 AI safety bill.”
This is a tough call and will make some people upset, but, all things considered, I think California should probably pass the SB 1047 AI safety bill.
For over 20 years, I have been an advocate for AI regulation, just as we regulate any product/technology that is a potential risk…
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 26, 2024
Musk highlighted his long-standing advocacy for AI regulation, comparing it to the regulation of any product or technology that poses potential risks. Notably, Musk’s own company, xAI, would be subject to SB 1047’s requirements, even though he has previously suggested moving his operations out of California.
While Musk supports SB 1047, OpenAI has opposed this bill, favoring a different legislative approach to AI regulation.
