Amendments to the Federal Labor Law and the Federal Copyright Law regarding the rights of performing artists, performers and executants

On May 14, 2026, the decree amending and supplementing various provisions of the Federal Labor Law and the Federal Copyright Law, regarding the rights of workers who are performing artists, performers and executants, was published in the Official Gazette of the Federation (hereinafter, the “Reform”).

The Reform introduces a protection framework against the use of artificial intelligence and other technologies to reproduce, modify, clone or simulate the voice, image, acting or performances of performing artists, performers and executants. In particular, it seeks to ensure that such uses are subject to prior authorization, clear contractual terms and differentiated remuneration.

From a labor law perspective, the Reform strengthens the obligation to set forth in writing the terms under which artificial intelligence systems or other technologies may be used in connection with the voice, image or artistic work of the worker. This will be relevant for production companies, advertising agencies, digital platforms, studios, brands, promoters and employers in the creative sector.

From a copyright law perspective, the Reform recognizes the right of performing artists, performers and executants to authorize or prohibit the impersonation of their work through artificial intelligence or other technologies that generate clones of their performances or simulate their voice, image or acting in an identifiable manner. It is important to note that certain legitimate uses, such as parody, satire or creative imitation, are preserved, provided that they are not intended to improperly replace the professional services of the artist.

Likewise, the Reform introduces a relevant development regarding reservations of rights, by allowing the protection of artistic and cultural events, such as festivals, contests, fairs or other events of a similar nature. This addition is particularly relevant in the context of international national-team soccer events to be held in Mexico, where the protection of names, concepts, formats and identifying elements may be key to preventing unauthorized commercial associations.

However, the Reform also raises a sensitive issue: by focusing the protection on performing artists, performers and executants, it appears to narrow the express and general protection that the Federal Copyright Law previously afforded to the use of any person’s image. This may create uncertainty for individuals who, without having such status, face unauthorized uses of their image, voice or identity through artificial intelligence or other technologies.

Accordingly, we recommend assessing contractual mechanisms to protect image, voice and identity, both for performing artists, performers and executants and for individuals who do not qualify under such category.

At Cannizzo, we remain at your disposal to provide further information or advise on its proper implementation.

Yours sincerely,

Cannizzo