New York Passes First-in-Nation Bill Requiring AI Disclosure in News
New York's legislature passed a bill requiring news organizations to clearly label content generated by artificial intelligence. The NY FAIR News Act (New York Fundamental Artificial Intelligence Requirements in News Act) now goes to Governor Kathy Hochul for signature.
The legislation mandates that news outlets operating in the state disclose when they use generative AI to create articles, broadcasts, or other content. It won bipartisan support in both chambers of the legislature.
According to the National Broadcasters Association, 76% of Americans say they're concerned about AI stealing or reproducing journalism and local news stories.
Why This Matters for Writers
The bill reflects growing pressure on the news industry to protect human journalists as generative AI and LLM technology becomes cheaper and faster to deploy. Major unions backed the legislation, including the Writers Guild of America East, SAG-AFTRA, the NewsGuild of New York, and the Freelancers Union.
"Real journalism requires real human beings," said Susan DeCarava, president of the NewsGuild of New York. "If media companies want to use artificial intelligence in news gathering and analysis, it must be under terms that are ethical, transparent, and enforceable."
For freelance writers and journalists, the bill creates accountability around how media companies deploy AI. Elle Toussi, interim executive director of the Freelancers Union, said the legislation provides "a level playing field that doesn't allow corporations to replace their labor with AI away from the public eye."
What the Bill Requires
News organizations must disclose when published content is substantially or wholly generated by AI. The law applies to all outlets operating in New York, from local newsrooms to national broadcasters.
Supporters argue the requirement protects public trust at a time when confidence in media is low. Senator Patricia Fahy, who sponsored the bill, said the legislation sets "common-sense guidelines that protect New Yorkers from the unintended consequences of AI."
For more on how AI affects writers, explore resources designed for professionals navigating these changes.
Next Steps
The bill awaits Governor Hochul's signature. If signed, New York becomes the first state to require AI disclosure in news content.
Your membership also unlocks:
