In one paragraph
Massachusetts' H 5094, as reported by House Ways and Means, would require paid audio or video political communications that contain AI-generated synthetic media to say "contains content generated by AI" at the beginning and end and to carry an AI-generated label throughout each synthetic portion. A violation would be punished by a fine of up to $1,000. The House adopted Amendment 4 (not reviewed here) and passed the bill to be engrossed 157-0 on February 11, 2026. The Senate referred it to Senate Ways and Means on February 12, 2026; it is not law.
Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.
What it means for business
None unless enacted: the bill has passed only the House. If enacted, campaign committees, PACs, parties and others paying with contributions would have to label AI-generated political audio and video.
Key provisions
- As reported, would add definitions of artificial intelligence, generative artificial intelligence and synthetic media (audio or video content substantially produced by generative AI) to chapter 50
- Would apply to audio or video communications paid for by a candidate committee, PAC, political issues committee, party or a person using a contribution, intended to influence voting on a candidate or ballot proposition
- Would require "contains content generated by AI" at the beginning and end, and a statement throughout each synthetic portion (video: legible writing; audio: clearly spoken)
- Would punish a violation by a fine of not more than $1,000, without exempting the person from liability under other laws
- Passed the House 157-0 on February 11, 2026 after Amendment 4 was adopted; referred to Senate Ways and Means February 12, 2026
Latest legislative action
Feb 12, 2026. Read; and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
Sponsors (showing 5 of 22)
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| House Committee on Ways and Means | Primary |
| Bradley H. Jones, Jr. | Cosponsor |
| Brian M. Ashe D | Cosponsor |
| Brian W. Murray D | Cosponsor |
| Christopher Hendricks | Cosponsor |
Roll call votes
H. 5094 On passing to be engrossed Feb 11, 2026
157 yea0 nayPassed
Topics and industries
Related topics
Affected industries
This page is general information, not legal advice. Summaries are AI-assisted and may contain errors; read the statute for the controlling text and talk to a lawyer about your situation. Full disclaimer · Report an error