A new AI tool, known as the content scaling agent (CSA), is being introduced across the McClatchy Media group, affecting how journalists are credited for their work. The CSA allows editors to produce summaries of various lengths and create tailored versions of articles for specific audiences, aiming to alleviate the mechanical aspects of writing and enable reporters to concentrate on more critical elements like storytelling.
This change means that some journalists may receive partial bylines even when an AI system has handled significant portions of their articles. For example, the Centre Daily Times has adopted a format that acknowledges AI assistance, while the Sacramento Bee omits author attribution altogether. In contrast, the Miami Herald's approach includes the author’s name but emphasizes the AI's role in content production.
Kathy Vetter, McClatchy’s chief of staff for local news, indicated during a staff meeting that if contracts do not allow authors to opt out of byline usage, their names will be retained. This rollout has sparked discussions within the journalism community regarding the implications of AI on authorship and credit.