Lawmaker looks to update standards for AI-generated robocalls

A new House bill is seeking to update existing law to create new guidelines around the use of artificial intelligence-generated audio content. 

The legislation, introduced by Rep. Rick Allen, R-Ga., on Monday, would “amend the Communications Act of 1934 to establish technical and procedural standards for artificial or prerecorded voice systems created through generative artificial intelligence.”

Allen’s office said in a press release that the proposal would modify the existing law “to incorporate AI-generated systems, ensuring they are subject to the same regulations and standards as traditional telephone-based systems (otherwise known as “robocalls).” 

The congressman’s measure would also give the Federal Communications Commission the authority to apply the new standards to other emerging technologies “as appropriate.”

“As technology continues to evolve and play a larger role in Americans' lives in the modern economy, Congress must work to ensure existing laws and regulations do not lag behind,” Allen said in a statement. “Absent clear regulatory guidance, bad actors are too often utilizing AI technologies to deceive consumers through highly realistic automated calls, leading to potential fraud or privacy invasions.”

Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have expressed growing concern about the use of AI-generated content in phone calls, particularly after a robocall went out to New Hampshire residents ahead of the state’s presidential primary in January that included an AI-generated voice of President Joe Biden telling voters not to head to the polls.

Following that incident, the FCC unanimously approved a declaratory ruling in February that deemed the use of AI-generated voices in robocalls illegal. The agency is also considering another proposal that would require AI-generated content in campaign ads on broadcast television and radio to include a disclosure. 

During a House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology oversight hearing on Tuesday, Allen thanked the FCC for its ruling earlier this year while underscoring the need for his legislation. 

“Consistently, some of the biggest concerns I hear from constituents are regarding the robocalls, scam calls and texts,” Allen said during the hearing. “With the increasing use of AI in communication, maintaining public trust is crucial.”