By Cynthia Littleton

The California State Senate has passed a bill that would require permission to use the likenesses of deceased artists for AI-created digital replicas.

SAG-AFTRA is among the organizations championing the legislation as a way to help estates of deceased entertainers retain some control over AI-created forgeries and replicas of famous figures. The union was quick to announce the passage of AB 1836 in a statement after the Senate considered the bill in an unusual Saturday session.

The passage of AB 1836, which now awaits Gov. Gavin Newsom’s signature, comes four days after the state Senate passed AB 2602, which tightens consent requirements for using AI to replicate living performers.