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Allegheny County Council

Campaign materials built with generative AI could need a clear disclosure starting next year.

Written by Amy Whipple

As the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) continues to grow, so does the public desire to put boundaries around it.

During its Sept. 8 meeting, council introduced an ordinance that would establish regulations for the use of generative AI in elections for county office.

The legislation points to the increasing difficulty in distinguishing materials made using AI “from reality.”

According to the legislation, generative AI used in bad faith is “particularly pernicious in the realm of political advertising, as individuals’ voting decisions can be predicated upon a belief that fictional events actually took place, and election results impacted by those erroneous beliefs can impact public policy (including regulatory oversight of AI itself) for years or decades.” 

Both written and audio campaign materials made with — or significantly modified by — generative AI would be required to have a prominent disclosure. Failure to do so could result in a fine of up to $300 and/or a 30-day jail sentence, compounded daily. The consequences would not apply to media outlets that publish materials in good faith and without the knowledge of AI use.

If passed, the restrictions would go into effect Jan. 1 of next year. 

Council referred the ordinance to the government reform committee.

Connections to this story

Governments:
Allegheny County Council
Public meetings:
County Council · September 8, 2026
Sources:
Ordinance 14050-26 — amending and supplementing the Allegheny County Code of Ordinances, Division 2, entitled “County Government…

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