North Dakota House Considers Bills on AI in Political Ads

Sandy McMerty, deputy secretary of state, speaks during committee hearing on Jan. 17, 2025. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor)

(Michael Achterling – North Dakota Monitor) – Artificial intelligence used for political purposes would require a disclaimer under a bill proposed in the North Dakota Legislature.

The House Government and Veterans Affairs Committee held a hearing on House Bill 1167 that would require a “prominent disclaimer” on any political communication or political advertisement created wholly or in part by artificial intelligence tools.

The disclaimer must read: “This content generated by artificial intelligence.”

Bill sponsor Rep. Jonathan Warrey, R-Casselton, said he expects AI use in political communications to become a much bigger issue in the future.

“There are other states taking action on this to provide some protections in place, and I think the overall theme is very sound,” Warrey said.

He added the bill was crafted through consultation with the Secretary of State’s Office and creates a new provision under the Corrupt Practices section of North Dakota Century Code, making any violation punishable by a Class A misdemeanor.

Deputy Secretary of State Sandy McMerty testified in support of the bill. She said AI can be used to help create graphics, write a newsletter and other communication.