State lawmakers are increasingly focusing their attention on artificial intelligence and are grappling with a multitude of questions

Protecting Constituents: State Lawmakers Address Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is rapidly advancing, and state lawmakers are working to stay ahead of potential issues. Their primary focus is on their own state governments before implementing regulations on the private sector. The goal is to safeguard constituents from discrimination while continuing to allow advancements in various fields such as medicine, science, business, and education.

Connecticut is taking a proactive approach by inventorying all government systems that utilize AI by the end of 2023. This information will be made available online, and regular reviews will be conducted to prevent unlawful discrimination. State Senator James Maroney, a prominent figure in the AI realm, believes that the next step will be to address AI regulation in the private industry. To accomplish this, Maroney plans to collaborate on model AI legislation with lawmakers from other states such as Colorado, New York, Virginia, and Minnesota. The focus will be on establishing broad guidelines, including product liability and impact assessments of AI systems.

Multiple states and territories have introduced AI bills this year, with a significant number already adopting resolutions or legislation. For instance, Texas, North Dakota, West Virginia, and Puerto Rico have established advisory bodies to study and monitor AI systems used by state agencies. Louisiana has created a technology and cyber security committee to assess AI’s impact on state operations. The prevailing sentiment among lawmakers is the need to gather data on the use of AI within their respective states.

Connecticut’s new law addressing AI systems used by state agencies comes in response to an investigation conducted by the Media Freedom and Information Access Clinic at Yale Law School. The study revealed that AI is already being used in areas such as school assignments, bail determinations, and welfare benefits distribution. However, the algorithms behind these systems are largely unknown to the public.

AI covers a broad range of technologies, from algorithms used by streaming platforms like Netflix to generative AI systems such as ChatGPT that can assist with writing and generate new media. The surge in commercial investment in generative AI tools has led to both fascination and concerns over their potential to deceive and spread disinformation.

While some states have yet to address AI regulation, others like Hawaii have taken a different approach. Instead of passing legislation, Hawaii passed a resolution urging Congress to adopt safety guidelines for AI use and limit its application in the use of force by law enforcement and the military. State Senator Chris Lee intends to introduce a bill next year similar to Connecticut’s law and hopes to establish a permanent department or working group to handle AI matters.

On a larger scale, the European Union is at the forefront of establishing AI guardrails. Bipartisan AI legislation has been discussed in Congress, with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasizing the need to maximize the benefits of AI while mitigating risks. President Joe Biden’s administration has also secured voluntary commitments from U.S. companies to ensure the safety of their AI products.

Ideally, federal regulation would provide comprehensive AI guidelines, but state legislatures can act more efficiently. Some bills proposed at the state level are focused on specific AI-related concerns. Massachusetts has proposed limitations on mental health providers utilizing AI and preventing dystopian work environments. New York aims to restrict employers from using AI as an automated employment decision-making tool. North Dakota recently passed a bill clarifying that the term “person” does not include artificial intelligence.

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed legislation that would have prohibited voting machines from using AI software, stating that the bill addressed challenges not currently faced by the state. However, Democratic Senator Lisa Wellman of Washington believes that lawmakers must prepare for a future where machine systems play an increasingly prominent role in daily life. She plans to introduce legislation requiring students to take computer science courses in high school.

In conclusion, state lawmakers are actively working to address issues related to artificial intelligence. While some states are leading the way with comprehensive legislation, others are still determining the best course of action. The ultimate goal is to protect constituents from discrimination while fostering advancements in multiple industries. As AI continues to evolve, it is crucial to strike a balance between regulation and innovation.

Editor Notes

Artificial intelligence is an ever-evolving field that demands attention from lawmakers worldwide. State governments are taking steps to ensure the responsible use of AI technology while encouraging innovation. By implementing regulations and fostering collaboration, lawmakers can create a framework that supports progress while protecting citizens. It is an exciting time for AI, and as developments continue, it is essential to stay informed and engaged.

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