The Creator Bill of Rights, a new legislative proposal introduced by Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA), seeks to enhance protections for the growing number of professionals engaged in the creator economy. Collaborating with Creators 4 Mental Health, Khanna aims to establish institutional support for the estimated ten million Americans operating in the modern platform-based economy, emphasizing the need for fair treatment, transparency, and economic opportunity.
The proposal comprises seven key points focusing on essential benefits for creators, clear revenue-sharing agreements with platforms, and protective measures against challenges such as algorithmic deranking and the impacts of generative AI. Shira Lazar, Founder and CEO of Creators 4 Mental Health, heralded the proposed Bill of Rights as a crucial lifeline for creators who currently lack basic protections and frameworks of support.
Khanna highlighted the urgency of implementing laws to safeguard the rights of creators in the rapidly evolving digital economy, which supports over 200 million creators worldwide. He expressed pride in introducing a resolution that would bolster creators’ access to healthcare and workplace protections, reflecting a growing acknowledgment of the contributions creators make to the economy.
This advocacy for creator rights has been a topic of discussion for several years, with previous attempts at organization, such as the Internet Creators Guild founded by Hank Green, facing challenges in gaining momentum. Nevertheless, calls for a union-like representation for creators have gained traction, particularly as the industry now represents a substantial $250 billion global market.
The political landscape has also shown increased support for creators, evidenced by President Biden’s summit to strengthen ties with them and Representative Khanna’s engagements with influential figures in the industry. This cross-party recognition of creator needs signifies a possible shift towards greater advocacy for their rights.
In addition, various advocacy groups are rallying around federal initiatives, with the Creators Guild of America emerging as a new service organization for creators and SAG-AFTRA extending invitations to social media influencers for inclusion in its membership ranks.
Creators 4 Mental Health continues to highlight the mental health challenges faced by creators, revealing that 89% lack access to essential specialized services, including support for burnout. With Congressional backing, the hope is that this new legislation will pave the way for critical resources to become accessible and widespread, further strengthening the foundation for individuals within this dynamic sector. More information regarding Khanna’s proposal can be found on platforms like TikTok, engaging the creator community directly.