SOUL Act of 2026

This bill would add a new chapter to federal copyright law giving each U.S. citizen exclusive rights over their "unique likeness," including name, image, voice, biometric identifiers, genetic markers, and digital replicas such as deepfakes. These rights would last for the person's life plus 50 years and would apply automatically without registration. Uses such as parody, news reporting, criticism, government activities, and other First Amendment-protected activities would be exempt. Owners could sue in federal court for takedown orders and damages, and online platforms could be held liable if they do not remove content after a valid takedown notice. The bill would replace state laws that provide equivalent likeness rights, and it would take effect 90 days after enactment.

Full text and official record on Congress.gov

Sponsors

• Andy Biggs Republican sponsor
• 0 cosponsors