Rep. Yasmin Neal Proposes Artificial Intelligence Film Legislation to Protect Actors and Production Studios

ATLANTA - State Representative Yasmin Neal (D-Jonesboro) recently introduced House Bill 1603, the Georgia Entertainment Artificial Intelligence Accountability and Performer Protection Act, during the 2026 legislative session. The proposed legislation seeks to safeguard performers and strengthen protections for Georgia's film and entertainment industry regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI).

"Artificial intelligence is here, and it can be a valuable tool, but we must ensure there are protections in place so actors and actresses are not taken advantage of," said Rep. Neal. "We also want to support production companies and studios that properly request and use artificial intelligence in their productions. We must hold accountable those who misuse artificial intelligence against actors and other talent, while also supporting production studios and networks that use it properly with the proper releases and documentation in place."

HB 1603 would require explicit written consent to use a performer's AI-generated likeness. A digital replica-defined in the bill as a highly realistic electronic representation, created or altered by AI or other computer systems, that closely imitates a performer's likeness in a sound recording, image, audiovisual work or transmission-could not be created or distributed without permission. The bill would also establish civil liability and a private right of action, allowing individuals to sue in civil court for violations. HB 1603 would set rules for contracts involving digital replicas, would ban AI tools designed to replicate performers without consent-targeting "deepfake-as-a-service" platforms-and would require production companies to maintain transparency in their use of AI.

Rep. Neal introduced HB 1603 during the 2026 legislative session with the purpose of allowing the film community and industry professionals to review the bill and prepare for the next legislative session, while also creating a model that other states across the country could use.

"I have heard directly from members of the film community about this legislation, and it was important for me to get it drafted so everyone can review it as we prepare for next year," added Rep. Neal. "I hope other states can use this bill as a model, and I encourage them to adopt it as a tool in their own states while we continue working to get it passed here in Georgia."

The full text of HB 1603 may be found here.

Representative Yasmin Neal represents the citizens of District 79, which includes a portion of Clayton County. She was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2020 and currently serves on the Economic Development & Tourism, Judiciary Non-Civil, Public Safety and Homeland Security and Ways & Means committees.

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