Gov. Josh Green signed measures seeking to set up new controls for artificial intelligence, commonly known as AI.

One of the bills targets what is referred to as “deepfake” technology, which enables the digital imitation of an individual’s voice, face or likeness. It has been linked to identity theft, fraud, election interference, cyberbullying and non-consensual pornography.

The act establishes consumer protection standards for deepfake technology and other similar AI functions, while defining harmful use and providing civil remedies for individuals injured by unauthorized AI-generated realistic digital imitations.

Expanding upon federal statutes that outlaw certain deepfake scenarios, the measure clarifies malicious deepfake use and enables victims of deepfake content to bring civil action for injunctive relief, punitive damages and monetary damages up to $25,000 per piece of content.

“AI presents fascinating opportunities for technological breakthroughs and has become a daily tool for many here in Hawaii,” Green said in a news release. “By being intentional with our approach and recognizing potential dangers, we will be better suited to use AI to our advantage.”

Another measure signed into law concerns conversational AI systems, particularly in regards to children and minors. Often referred to as generative AI, these systems are capable of outputting text, images, audio, video and interactive dialogue.

Because relying on generative AI for emotional and psychological support can dangerous, the act requires operators to issue certain disclosures, develop response protocols for user prompts regarding suicidal ideation or self-harm, and issue annual reports to the Behavioral Health Administration of the Department of Health.

Citing a previous case brought against Meta, this measure establishes guidelines to prevent addictive software patterns targeted at minors and misrepresentations that a chatbot is of human likeness.