The New York Film and Television Union Coalition commends two identical bills currently pending in New York State. These bills aim to prohibit the use of artificial intelligence by applicants seeking the Empire State film production credit if it would lead to the displacement of human workers in their productions. The coalition comprises several industry unions, including SAG-AGTRA, WGA East, the Directors Guild of America, the Cinematographers Guild (IATSE Local 600), the Editors Guild (IATSE Local 700), United Scenic Artists (IATSE Local 829), IATSE Local 52, and Teamsters Local 817. For the Writers Guild and SAG-AFTRA, the implementation of artificial intelligence in the production of film and TV shows is a major concern that has contributed to their strikes since May 2 and July 14, respectively. The recently ratified contract by the DGA has implemented safeguards regarding the use of artificial intelligence, and IATSE, who will commence contract negotiations next year, has expressed concerns about AI's potential to disrupt the business models of employers and negatively impact its members' livelihoods. In a statement, the Union Coalition expressed its strong belief in the value of human creative expression over generative artificial intelligence. The coalition commended the pending legislation for prioritizing workers' protection against job displacement in the film and television industry and preventing the misuse of creative talent assets.

They also expressed their commitment to working with Senator [Lea] Webb and Assemblymember [Demond] Meeks on this matter. While acknowledging the potential of artificial intelligence to improve lives and jobs, the Union Coalition emphasized that it should not be utilized as a tool to replace workers and undermine their creative contributions in the film and television production process. They vowed to actively collaborate with bargaining tables and elected officials to safeguard their members' interests and essential contributions to the arts. The DGA's new contract with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers includes significant commitments regarding the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI). According to the DGA, these provisions ensure that the customary and contractual duties assigned to DGA-represented employees will remain with them, emphasizing that GAI does not constitute a person. The agreement also mandates employers to consult with the Director or other DGA-covered employees before using GAI in connection with creative elements, as stipulated in the DGA Basic Agreement. Additionally, employers, including senior studio executives, are required to meet at least twice a year with the DGA to discuss the intended uses of GAI and appropriate compensation for any material directed by DGA members that may be used to train GAI systems.