Beth Van Duyne Protects Artists from AI Style Imitation in New CREATOR Act

U.S Representatives Beth Van Duyne (R-TX), Yvette D. Clarke (D-NY), and Valerie Foushee (D-NC) have introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at protecting visual artists from unauthorized AI-generated imitations of their work.

The Creative Rights Ensuring Artists' Technique and Originality Are Reserved (CREATOR) Act would establish a new federal right designed to shield visual artists from the commercial use and public distribution of artificial intelligence-generated content that imitates their distinctive artistic styles without permission.

The legislation stems from discussions held through the bipartisan Congressional Creator Caucus, co-founded by Rep. Van Duyne and Clarke, which seeks to elevate the concerns of creators and entrepreneurs in federal policymaking. The bill also aligns with the caucus's broader mission of promoting innovation while safeguarding intellectual property rights and economic opportunities for creators.

"Since launching the Congressional Creators Caucus, I've had the privilege of hearing directly from an incredible and growing community of creators across this country," said Rep. Van Duyne. "Artists, illustrators, and designers in every district are watching their livelihoods be undercut by AI tools and deliberately impersonating them, but right now, the law has no answer for it."

Rep. Clarke said the legislation responds directly to concerns raised by creators whose careers depend on intellectual property protections.

"The CREATOR Act is a direct response to those concerns that represents an important step toward ensuring that innovation does not come at the expense of the creators who drive it," said Clarke.

Rep. Foushee emphasized the need for safeguards as artificial intelligence continues to evolve.

"Creative jobs and workers must be supported as AI threatens to disrupt their livelihoods and exploit creative work," she said.

The proposal has garnered support from artists, photographers, advocacy groups, and technology stakeholders. Supporters argue the measure would fill a gap in existing law by providing creators with legal resources against AI-generated works that intentionally imitate an artist's signature style for commercial gain.

Organizations that have endorsed the legislation have described it as a significant step toward balancing innovation with protections for creators in the rapidly expanding AI landscape.

These Organizations include:

• Adobe
• The Graphic Artists Guild
• The Business Software Alliance
• The PLUS Coalition