Senate Republicans Push Commonsense AI Labeling to Stop Deepfakes from Fooling Voters, Harming Kids, Scamming Arizonans
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
PHOENIX, ARIZONA—Senate Republicans are taking a forward-looking approach to emerging technology by advancing legislation to address AI-generated deepfakes and protect the public from digital deception. As manipulated images, audio, and video become more convincing and more dangerous, Republicans are acting to defend election integrity, shield children from exploitation, and strengthen consumer trust, while aligning Arizona with national AI standards, keeping innovation moving forward.
SB 1786, sponsored by President Warren Petersen, requires companies offering public AI tools in Arizona, such as image/ video/ audio generators, to add a built-in "AI-made" label – like an invisible digital tag or watermark – to anything their systems create or change. The bill also clearly distinguishes between significant changes and routine edits, such as resizing or adjusting colors. This approach mirrors federal best practices developed under the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative, with guidance from agencies such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Energy, without adding new bureaucracy or costs for Arizona taxpayers.
"Conservatives don't fear innovation—we lead it," said President Petersen. "But with innovation comes responsibility, and right now, deepfakes are being used to deceive voters, exploit children, and defraud consumers. This bill draws a clear, common-sense line: if AI creates or materially alters content, the public deserves to know. That's not government overreach—it's transparency. It protects free speech, supports legitimate AI development, and defends the integrity of our marketplaces. Arizona should be a place where cutting-edge technology thrives, but not at the expense of truth, trust, or public safety. This legislation proves we can protect people, respect innovation, and keep government limited all at the same time."
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus