With the use of artificial intelligence expanding in the creation of content, a New York lawmaker is proposing new standards that would make it clear when AI is used in any published news content. The bill would require news organizations operating in New York to disclose to journalists and media professionals how and when AI is used in the workplace and that all news stories, articles, audio, visuals or images created by AI must be first reviewed by a human employee with editorial control before publication.

Sponsors of the New York Fundamental Artificial Intelligence Requirements in News Act or FAIR News Act (S.8451/A.8962-A) say they are working to create “common sense guidelines” that protect consumers from the unintended consequences of AI.

Senator Patricia Fahy, an Albany Democrat, points to a survey conducted by the National Association of Broadcasters which found more than three-quarters are concerned about AI stealing or reproducing journalism and local news stories. The survey also found that only 26% of respondents trust AI-produced information, while 68% say it is not trustworthy.

“Perhaps one of the industries at most risk from the use of artificial intelligence is journalism and as a result, the public’s trust and confidence in accurate news reporting,” Fahy said.

Assemblywoman Nily Rozic, a New York City Democrat who cosponsored the bill, said their effort ensures transparency in how AI is used in news production and safeguards against worker displacement. Rozic says it also “reinforces local journalism.”

The proposed NY FAIR News Act has already been endorsed by a broad coalition of unions representing workers throughout New York’s media sector. That includes the Writers Guild of America East chapter that represents Audacy all-news WINS-AM/FM New York (1010/92.3). In a memo supporting the bill, the radio journalists say that while many unionized newsrooms have secured safeguards from AI in their collective bargaining agreements, there are no legal standards.

“We firmly believe there is an urgent need to establish guardrails for media companies operating in New York State to prevent them from using AI at the expense of the integrity of our work or from the dangerous consequences of misinforming the public,” the station’s employees say. Beyond protecting journalist jobs, WINS workers say they also want to protect the integrity of the news produced, suggesting AI labeling in search engine results are also needed.

In another newsroom that is focused on podcasts and digital content, the Vox Media Editorial Union says it also strongly supports the proposal to create protections regarding the use of AI for both journalists and the broader public. While the Vox newsroom was able to secure safeguards from generative AI in its most recent collective bargaining agreement, the group says it still sees an “urgent need” to establish guardrails for media companies.

Supporters of the NY FAIR News Act have also picked up support from the New York State AFL-CIO, Writers Guild of America East (WGAE), Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), Directors Guild of America and the NewsGuild of New York. Member unions representing workers at ABC News, CBS News, CBS News 24/7, CBS News Digital, The New York Times, The New Yorker, Condé Nast, Hearst Magazines Media, Business Insider, and WPIX-TV have also signed memos of support.

“We are not here to stop technological advancement,” said SAG-AFTRA’s New York Executive Director Rebecca Damon. “But news media companies must be honest with the public and cooperate with news workers to uphold journalistic standards and workplace protections.”