IATSE responds to three key AI-related U.S. policy developments: praising a Copyright Office report, questioning the legality of Register Shira Perlmutter’s firing, and opposing a proposed federal ban on state AI regulations that would undermine worker protections.
In the bustling corridors of Washington, D.C., a significant moment unfolded for behind-the-scenes workers in the entertainment industry. On Wednesday, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) made waves with its response to recent U.S. policy developments around artificial intelligence (AI). The union praised the latest report from the U.S. Copyright Office while raising serious questions about the treatment of its leadership and the implications of proposed legislation that could undermine state-level AI protections.
Diving into specifics, IATSE applauded the U.S. Copyright Office’s report titled “Copyright and Artificial Intelligence, Part 3: Generative AI Training.” It emphasized that AI training cannot simply sidestep fair use norms. The report states, “making commercial use of vast troves of copyrighted works to produce expressive content that competes with them in existing markets… goes beyond established fair use boundaries.” This aligns with IATSE’s stance that tech firms shouldn’t leverage copyrighted material without permission. This theft isn’t just illegal; it potentially threatens the health and retirement benefits for countless workers within the industry, raising serious alarms.
In a twist that smacks of politics, IATSE expressed anxiety over the Trump Administration’s alleged efforts to dismiss Shira Perlmutter, the Register of Copyrights. This dismissal followed closely on the heels of the AI report’s release. IATSE argues that this potential firing doesn’t hold water legally, as Perlmutter is more aligned with the legislative branch. They hinted at a broader pattern as well—citing the contentious dismissal of National Labor Relations Board Chair Gwynne Wilcox, who is also caught in a legal tangle regarding her own termination.
Meanwhile, IATSE is taking a stand against a proposed ban included in the House Republican budget reconciliation package, which would essentially freeze state-level AI regulations for a decade. This newly proposed restriction aims to strip states of their right to enact sensible AI protections, sidelining the needs of workers and communities alike. IATSE highlighted efforts from diverse states like Tennessee and New York, where state legislation is already addressing the complex issues presented by AI like deepfakes and algorithmic bias. It’s evident that state policies reflect a crucial need for regulation amid rapid advancements in technology.
The impending legislation threatens not just creativity but also the livelihoods of entertainment workers. IATSE is keeping a close eye on developments surrounding the budget reconciliation bill, advocating vigorously to ensure state protections remain intact. They stressed that the fight isn’t over and emphasized the importance of defending American jobs and values in the face of growing corporate power.
Though discussions are currently fluid, IATSE urges lawmakers to reconsider the proposed measures, advocating for frameworks that prioritize fairness, transparency, and worker rights to navigate the intricate landscape of AI and its implications for the entertainment industry. As the debate unfolds, it’s clear that behind-the-scenes workers are on guard, prepared to push back against any encroachments on their rights and livelihoods.
IATSE is asserting its voice in the ongoing debate over AI and copyright, highlighting the recent U.S. Copyright Office report that underscores the complexities of AI training in relation to fair use. The union is also raising alarms over the possible illegal dismissal of Shira Perlmutter and opposing a federal ban that could quash state-level AI protections. Advocating for workers and their rights, IATSE remains vigilant as these critical policy discussions evolve.
Original Source: iatse.net
