Nassau Standard

Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz (R,C-Oyster Bay) has hit the ground running during the 2024 Legislative Session by introducing two comprehensive artificial intelligence (AI) bills aimed at protecting New Yorkers from the dangers of AI-generated deepfakes.

Blumencranz emphasized the importance of safeguarding vulnerable populations, stating, "Protecting our most vulnerable populations from abuse must be our top priority as leaders, especially in the wake of emerging technologies such as AI and the corresponding proliferation of deepfakes across the internet."

Addressing the specific threat posed to children, Blumencranz introduced the “New York AI Child Safety Act” to combat the spread of AI-generated child pornography. He highlighted the need for increased criminal penalties to hold offenders accountable, stating, "I refuse to stand idly by while my neighbors and fellow New Yorkers suffer."

Furthermore, Blumencranz's legislative efforts extend beyond protecting children, as he also aims to combat the unlawful distribution of sexually explicit deepfakes targeting individuals from various backgrounds. In response to recent incidents, including the dissemination of sexually explicit deepfakes of pop star Taylor Swift, Blumencranz introduced the "Swift Act" to require prompt removal of unlawful content from social media platforms and increase criminal penalties for such actions.

Under Blumencranz's proposed legislation, offenders creating and sharing intimate deepfake content could face felony charges, with the attorney general empowered to enforce the law and seek restitution and civil penalties for violations. The bill seeks to address the growing threat of AI-generated deepfakes and protect New Yorkers from the harmful consequences of this technology.