Introduction
The California senate passed a bill that essentially bans several popular AI image generation models and services within the state. This has caused a lot of shock in the AI community. SB 1047 is the name of the bill that goes after big AI models that take a lot of computer power to train and cost at least $100 million to make.
Some of the models that are affected are CivitAI, Hugging Face, Flux, and Stable Diffusion. These models are becoming more and more popular among artists and companies that want to make unique pictures quickly and easily. The law also covers any future AI models that meet the requirements for cost and computer power. This could include even more advanced models made by tech giants like OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft.
The Rationale Behind the Ban
Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to prevent people from abusing these powerful AI tools, which could lead to “critical harms” such as mass deaths or hacks that significantly damage businesses. The bill requires makers of covered AI models to implement safety procedures, including an “emergency stop” button and regular third-party checks, to ensure that they do not use their models for malicious purposes.
But the bill has a lot of resistance in Silicon Valley. Venture capitalists, trade groups, researchers, and company owners have all said that it is too restrictive and could stop new ideas from happening. Some people are against the bill because they think it is based on “deep confusion” about what large language models (LLMs) can do. They also say that all models, no matter how big or expensive, can be misused.
What it means for creators and businesses
For creators and companies that have come to rely on AI picture generation tools, the ban offers a major challenge. A lot of people have started using these tools to make their work easier, cut costs, and make more original material faster. The loss of famous models like CivitAI, Hugging Face, Flux, and Stable Diffusion could make it more difficult and expensive for them to build the pictures they need.
There are, however, some limitations in the bill. For example, if another creator spends at least $10 million building a derivative of an open-source model or its derivatives, the bill only covers those models. This means that some AI image generation tools may still be available, albeit with possibly higher prices and more limitations.
The Future of AI Image Generation in California
As the bill awaits Governor Gavin Newsom’s signature, the future of AI picture creation in California remains unclear. While proponents say that the bill is necessary to protect against possible misuse, critics warn that it could have unintended effects and stifle growth in the state.
One possible result is that companies and creators may choose to relocate outside of California to escape the restrictions imposed by the bill. This could lead to a brain drain of AI ability and investment, as well as a loss of economic activity for the state.
Alternatively, the bill could spur developers to create new AI picture generation tools designed to meet the safety and security requirements outlined in the legislation. This could lead to a new breed of AI models that are more transparent, accountable, and safe, possibly setting an example for other states and countries to follow.
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Conclusion
The California legislature’s move to ban several famous AI picture generation models and services has sent shockwaves through the AI community. While proponents argue that the bill is necessary to avoid possible abuse, critics warn that it could have unexpected effects and stifle innovation in the state.
For creators and companies that have come to rely on these technologies, the ban offers a major task. However, there are still some cases and possible workarounds, and the future of AI picture generation in California remains unclear.
