California Assembly Moves to Combat AI-Powered Impersonation By Passing Senator Cortese’s Bill Taking Aim at Digital Exploitation of Name, Voice, and Image

SACRAMENTO – Senator Dave Cortese’s (D-Silicon Valley) SB 683, allowing individuals to seek the immediate removal of unauthorized materials including their name, voice or likeness for commercial purposes within two business days today was passed by the Assembly and goes back to the Senate for approval.

The bill is intended to address and prevent exploitation, particularly in situations where individuals' personal information or images are used without their consent. 

“SB 683 is designed to expedite the removal of  the unauthorized materials while legal proceedings are ongoing,” said Senator Dave Cortese. “My bill strengthens existing privacy protections by encouraging individuals to seek a temporary restraining order for the removal of their name, voice, signature, photograph, or likeness if it's being used without their consent.”

This bill will also help sexual assault and harassment survivors.

“For survivors of sexual assault and harassment, the unauthorized use of their image or likeness can be retraumatizing and deeply damaging. SB 683 would provide swift protections to stop the spread of exploitative material before it can cause even further harm. This is an essential tool for survivors and it's imperative that lawmakers enshrine these rights, especially in our digital age,” said Michele Dauber, Stanford University law professor and longtime advocate for victims of sexual assault.