Introduction
The bipartisan Transparency and Responsibility for Artificial Intelligence Networks (TRAIN) Act has been reintroduced by US Senator Marsha Blackburn, along with Senators Peter Welch [2], Adam Schiff [2] [5], and Josh Hawley [5]. This legislation seeks to enhance transparency and accountability in the use of copyrighted works for training generative AI models, thereby empowering creators to protect their intellectual property rights [1].
Description
US Senator Marsha Blackburn [2] [5], alongside Senators Peter Welch [2], Adam Schiff [2] [5], and Josh Hawley [5], has reintroduced the bipartisan Transparency and Responsibility for Artificial Intelligence Networks (TRAIN) Act [2] [4]. This legislation aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the use of copyrighted works for training generative AI models [1], empowering creators—including musicians [1] [2], artists [1] [2] [3] [4] [5], writers [1] [2] [4] [5], and other copyright holders—to protect their intellectual property rights [1]. The TRAIN Act addresses significant concerns raised by the creative community regarding the unauthorized use of copyrighted materials without consent or compensation, as many AI companies currently have no legal obligation to disclose their training data.
To facilitate this, the TRAIN Act allows copyright owners to request information about AI training data through an administrative subpoena process [4], akin to those used in internet piracy cases [2] [3] [4]. This provision enables creators to investigate potential unauthorized use of their works in AI training, with compliance being mandatory. Failure to comply with these subpoenas creates a rebuttable presumption of copyright infringement. Subpoenas will only be granted based on a sworn declaration from the copyright owner affirming their good faith belief that their work was utilized for training purposes [3].
Supporters of the TRAIN Act [2] [3], including organizations such as the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and the Recording Academy [2], emphasize the necessity for transparency in AI training inputs and the importance of empowering creators to take action against unauthorized use of their works. The legislation is viewed as a crucial measure to establish protections for human creators against the potential threats posed by generative AI technologies [5], ensuring that AI serves the interests of creators rather than exploiting their contributions [3]. Senator Welch’s commitment to enhancing consumer protections and establishing regulatory frameworks for digital platforms reflects a broader dedication to addressing the implications of emerging technologies on intellectual property rights.
Conclusion
The TRAIN Act represents a significant step towards safeguarding the rights of creators in the face of advancing AI technologies. By mandating transparency and accountability [1], the legislation aims to prevent the exploitation of copyrighted materials and ensure that AI development respects intellectual property rights. This initiative not only protects creators but also sets a precedent for responsible AI practices, balancing innovation with ethical considerations.
References
[1] https://www.tennessean.com/story/entertainment/music/2025/08/06/marsha-blackburn-train-act-ai-musicians-nashville/85532284007/
[2] https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2025/8/technology/blackburn-welch-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-musicians-artists-and-creators-from-unauthorized-ai-training
[3] https://www.transparencycoalition.ai/news/in-congress-sen-blackburn-and-sen-welch-introduce-bill-to-protect-creators-from-unauthorized-ai-training
[4] https://fox17.com/news/nation-world/senator-marsha-blackburn-introduces-bill-to-protect-artists-from-unauthorized-ai-training-train-act-peter-welch-d-vt-josh-hawley-r-mo-and-adam-schiff-d-calif-tennessee-news-entertainment-google-trends
[5] https://www.welch.senate.gov/welch-leads-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-musicians-artists-and-creators-from-unauthorized-ai-training/
