New York Lawmakers Move to Regulate Use of AI in Journalism
New York state lawmakers have introduced new legislation aimed at limiting the role of artificial intelligence in news production and increasing transparency within the journalism industry.
State Senator Pat Fahy and Assembly Member Nily Rozic recently unveiled the New York Fundamental Artificial Intelligence Requirements in News Act, known as the NY FAIR News Act. The proposal seeks to protect journalists, media workers, and the public by setting clear rules on how artificial intelligence can be used in newsrooms.
If passed, the legislation would require media organizations to disclose when artificial intelligence is used in creating published content. It would also obligate employers to inform staff about how AI tools are being implemented in editorial processes. Additionally, the bill would restrict news companies from replacing human journalists with AI systems and include protections for reporters and their sources from misuse of AI technologies.
Supporters of the bill argue that journalism is particularly vulnerable to rapid technological change. Senator Fahy said the legislation is designed to preserve public confidence in news reporting while safeguarding a profession already under pressure. She pointed to growing public concern about artificial intelligence reproducing or misappropriating journalists’ work, citing industry research showing widespread unease over AI’s impact on original reporting.
The NY FAIR News Act has gained backing from major labor organizations, including the New York State AFL-CIO, SAG-AFTRA, and the NewsGuild of New York. Union leaders say the bill would help maintain editorial integrity, protect workers’ rights, and reinforce trust in the media. They describe the proposal as a necessary step to ensure democratic accountability in an era of rapidly advancing technology.
This bill is part of a broader push by New York lawmakers to regulate artificial intelligence. In recent years, several AI-focused proposals have been introduced, some facing resistance from technology industry-backed lobbying groups. Governor Kathy Hochul previously signed the RAISE Act, which established statewide AI regulations, though the final version was narrower than lawmakers initially proposed.
With artificial intelligence continuing to influence multiple sectors, state leaders appear prepared to revisit the issue this legislative session. Lawmakers have already held hearings on AI oversight, and additional proposals are under consideration, including measures to prevent deceptive AI use in political campaigns.
