SAG-AFTRA has announced the signing of the TAKE IT DOWN Act into law, marking a significant step in protecting individuals from exploitation through unauthorized use of their likeness and voice. The act is designed to combat the distribution of nonconsensual intimate images, including AI-generated deepfakes.
The union’s advocacy for such legislation began with AB 602 in California in 2019, which created a private right of action against those distributing unauthorized deepfaked intimate images. This was followed by New York Civil Rights Law 52-c in 2020, targeting unlawful dissemination of sexually explicit depictions via digitization.
In 2024, SAG-AFTRA supported the federal TAKE IT DOWN Act alongside Senators Ted Cruz and Amy Klobuchar. “Today, that bill has become law,” stated SAG-AFTRA. The law not only criminalizes the publication of nonconsensual intimate images but also establishes a process for victims to demand removal from online platforms hosting user-generated content.
This legislation aims to provide tools against online exploitation, particularly protecting children and teens from sexually explicit deepfakes. It represents an additional effort by SAG-AFTRA to safeguard its members’ voices and likenesses from misuse.
Looking ahead, SAG-AFTRA remains focused on passing the NO FAKES Act, reintroduced in April 2025. This proposed law seeks to grant individuals exclusive rights over digital replicas of their voices and likenesses through informed consent while balancing First Amendment protections. “Freedom of speech also includes the freedom not to have others put words in your mouth that you don’t agree with,” emphasizes SAG-AFTRA.
Members are encouraged to support this initiative by contacting their representatives. Further information on related legislation can be found at sagaftra.org/GAPP.
In unity,
Fran Drescher
President
Duncan Crabtree-Ireland
National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator
