Newspapers across the globe are grappling with how, or if, to implement the use of artificial intelligence (AI) into its newsrooms. 

From something as simple as using AI to transcribe an interview, to using it to write an entire article, the spectrum of AI and its application for news is broad.  

Now New York is trying to implement a new law that would require clear disclaimers for AI-generated content in media. 

Called the New York Fundamental Artificial Intelligence Requirements in News Act (NY FAIR News Act), it would ask news organizations to clearly label any content (articles, images, audio) created using artificial intelligence and disclose how and when AI tools are used.

It also stipulates that all AI-generated content must be reviewed by a human employee with editorial control prior to publication. 

The conversation surrounding AI in our everyday lives has been growing in recent years, from those who reject it entirely to those who have welcomed it into their lives with open arms. 

But the conversation around news articles and journalist’s standards appears to be less available to the public; what’s the story behind the story? 

At the Democrat, we have a team of five full-time editorial staff—real humans. 

As we write this editorial, reporters Sean Kuhn and Vincent Kurzrock are out in the field, covering events and interviewing sources. 

Our Sports Editor Crystal Tweed is on the sidelines of the next high school basketball game. 

And while a newly created website is generating “articles” from the Sullivan County Legislature, we have someone there at every committee meeting—his name is Matthew Albeck.

Every story passes through the eyes (real, human eyes) of editor Isabel Braverman (hello from the writer’s room!). 

So as the times change and technology becomes more available, we remind our readers that we are here behind the pages, and we thank you each week for reading.