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Bill

HR 334

To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to establish technical and procedural standards for artificial or prerecorded voice systems created through generative artificial intelligence, and for other purposes.

119th Congress Introduced by Rick Allen

HR 334 updates the Communications Act to regulate AI-generated voice systems, enhancing consumer protection and requiring compliance from telecom companies and tech developers.

Introduced in House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 334

Summary of HR 334: Amendments to the Communications Act of 1934

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HR 334
Title: To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to establish technical and procedural standards for artificial or prerecorded voice systems created through generative artificial intelligence, and for other purposes.
Status: Introduced in House
Introduced Date: January 13, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 334 is to update the Communications Act of 1934 by incorporating regulations that address the use of artificial or prerecorded voice systems, particularly those generated through generative artificial intelligence (genAI) technologies, such as voice cloning. This amendment aims to ensure that these advanced technologies are subject to appropriate technical and procedural standards, thereby enhancing consumer protection and maintaining the integrity of communication systems.

Key Provisions

  • Amendment to Section 227(d)(3): The bill proposes to amend Section 227(d)(3) of the Communications Act of 1934. The amendment specifically includes language that recognizes artificial or prerecorded voice systems created through generative artificial intelligence. This inclusion aims to cover emerging technologies that may not have been anticipated when the original legislation was enacted.

  • Regulatory Authority: The bill grants the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) the authority to determine which subsequent technologies may be deemed appropriate for regulation under this framework. This flexibility allows the FCC to adapt to rapid advancements in technology.

Impact

  • Affected Parties: The bill will primarily impact telecommunications companies, technology developers, and consumers. Companies that utilize or develop voice systems using genAI will need to comply with the new standards set forth by the FCC.

  • Consumer Protection: By establishing standards for these technologies, the bill seeks to protect consumers from potential misuse of artificial voice systems, such as fraud or deceptive practices.

Legislative Process

  • Committee Referral: Upon its introduction on January 13, 2025, HR 334 was referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce for further consideration. This committee will review the bill and may hold hearings or make amendments before it is brought to the floor for a vote.

Conclusion

HR 334 represents a proactive approach to regulating emerging technologies in the telecommunications sector. By addressing the implications of generative artificial intelligence in voice systems, the bill aims to safeguard consumers while fostering innovation in communication technologies. As the legislative process unfolds, further details and potential amendments may shape the final version of the bill.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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