The bill amends several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to enhance protections for personality rights, specifically regarding the use of an individual's name, voice, signature, photograph, or likeness in any medium. Key changes include clarifying that these rights exist in any medium and manner, regardless of whether they were commercially exploited during the individual's lifetime. The bill establishes that these rights are transferable and do not expire upon death, applying to both living and deceased individuals. It also specifies that the rights are enforceable by successors or heirs, and outlines the conditions under which these rights can be infringed upon, including unauthorized use for commercial purposes or fundraising.
Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions and clarifications regarding terms such as "deceased individual" and "deceased personality," emphasizing the commercial value of their likenesses at the time of death. It also details the legal recourse available for infringement, including civil penalties and the ability to recover damages. The amendments aim to ensure that individuals and their estates retain control over their personality rights, while also providing exemptions for certain uses related to cultural, educational, or public interest matters. Overall, the bill seeks to modernize and strengthen the legal framework surrounding personality rights in Washington State.
Statutes affected: Original bill: 63.60.010, 63.60.020, 63.60.030, 63.60.050, 63.60.060, 63.60.070