In an effort to safeguard musicians from exploitation by artificial intelligence (AI), the Tennessee House Banking and Consumer Affairs Subcommittee passed a unanimous vote on Feb. 13 for a new bill. The bill, known as the Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security Act (ELVIS) or HB 2091, was introduced by Governor Bill Lee in January 2024. Its main objective is to combat unethical uses of AI, specifically the unauthorized utilization of artists’ voice, image, and likeness.
ELVIS aims to advocate for the music community in Tennessee, while also providing protection for all residents of the state. The bill received support from State Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson and House Majority Leader William Lamberth.
Nashville, the capital city of Tennessee, is recognized as one of the top three hubs for music industry activity in the United States. According to data from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), the music industry in Nashville contributes $5.5 billion to the local economy, with a total output of $9.7 billion for the entire Nashville area. Consequently, the introduction of the ELVIS Act by Tennessee representatives holds significant importance for the working population.
During the subcommittee meeting, testimonies were heard from singer and actress Chrissy Metz, Nashville Songwriter Association board member and songwriter Jamie Moore, and Jessie Richard, the senior vice president for public policy of the RIAA.
Speaking about the ELVIS Act, Moore expressed concerns about the rapid development and advancement of generative AI, stating that it has the potential to disrupt the music industry. He emphasized the importance of music in the local culture and economy, asserting that Tennessee is leading the charge in protecting creators and highlighting the significance of human creativity.
Richard from the RIAA underscored that the ELVIS Act applies to all individuals, emphasizing the need to safeguard the voices and likenesses of all Tennesseans.
The subcommittee’s approval of the bill follows the endorsement of nearly 300 creatives, including Harvey Mason Jr., the CEO of the Recording Academy, on a federal bill called the No AI Fraud Act. This federal bill addresses similar protections for artists within the realm of AI.