Summary of Bill S 1228

Title: Relates to requiring advertisements to disclose the use of a synthetic performer

Bill Number: S 1228

Status: Committed to Rules

Introduced: January 08, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 1228 aims to enhance transparency in advertising by requiring that any advertisements featuring synthetic performers—such as digitally created characters or virtual influencers—clearly disclose their synthetic nature. The intent is to inform consumers about the authenticity of the performers they are engaging with, thereby promoting informed decision-making in the marketplace.

Key Provisions

• Disclosure Requirement: Advertisements that utilize synthetic performers must include a clear statement indicating that the performer is not a real person. This disclosure should be easily noticeable and understandable to the average consumer.

• Scope of Application: The bill applies to all forms of advertising, including but not limited to television, online platforms, and print media.

• Enforcement Mechanism: The bill outlines potential penalties for non-compliance, although specific details regarding enforcement and penalties are not detailed in the current version.

Affected Parties

• Advertisers and Companies: Businesses that use synthetic performers in their marketing strategies will be directly impacted, as they will need to adjust their advertising practices to comply with the new disclosure requirements.

• Consumers: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation are consumers, who will gain clearer insights into the nature of the performers they see in advertisements, helping them to make more informed choices.

Legislative Timeline

• January 08, 2025: Bill S 1228 was introduced and referred to the Consumer Protection Committee.
• April 03, 2025: The bill was amended and recommitted to the Consumer Protection Committee.
• May 15, 2025: The bill underwent further amendments and was recommitted again.
• May 21, 2025: The bill was amended and reported to the Consumer Protection Committee.
• May 28, 2025: The bill was placed on the first report calendar.
• May 29, 2025: The bill was placed on the second report calendar.
• June 04, 2025: The bill advanced to a third reading.
• June 13, 2025: The bill was committed to the Rules Committee.

Related Legislation

• A 6758 (prior-session): A related bill from a previous session that may have similar objectives.
• S 6859 (prior-session): Another related bill from a previous session.
• A 606 (companion): A companion bill that may address similar issues or provide additional context to the legislation.

Conclusion

Bill S 1228 represents a significant step towards consumer protection in advertising by mandating transparency regarding synthetic performers. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for advertising practices and consumer awareness will be closely monitored.