Senator Welch demands transparency in AI development with new TRAIN Act

In the United States, a new Senate bill known as the Transparency and Responsibility for Artificial Intelligence Networks (TRAIN) Act was introduced to address concerns regarding the use of copyrighted works in training artificial intelligence models. The bill aims to provide a mechanism for copyright holders to ascertain if their works were used without permission, enabling them to subpoena training records if they believe their materials were utilized. The bill was presented in response to mounting legal and ethical dilemmas creatives face as generative AI technologies proliferate, raising fears of uncredited reproduction of their art. Senator Peter Welch of Vermont emphasized the need for heightened transparency standards as AI increasingly influences people's lives. He stated that artists should have the ability to determine if their work was used in training models and to receive compensation if it was. The proposed legislation has garnered endorsements from various organizations, including SAG-AFTRA, the American Federation of Musicians, and major music labels. Despite this support and the increasing legal tensions surrounding AI development, the bill's future is uncertain as Congress focuses on key priorities such as avoiding a government shutdown. Welch intends to reintroduce the legislation next year if it does not pass in the current session.