State legislatures nationwide are beginning to address the rapidly advancing field of artificial intelligence (AI). Before imposing regulations on the private sector, some lawmakers are prioritizing their own state governments. The goal is to protect constituents from discrimination and other harms while fostering cutting-edge advancements in various industries.
Connecticut, for example, plans to create an inventory of its government AI systems and ensure they do not lead to unlawful discrimination. Additionally, legislators in multiple states are collaborating on model AI legislation to establish broad guidelines and requirements for AI systems. As of July, at least 14 states and Puerto Rico had enacted AI-related resolutions or legislation. Several states have formed advisory bodies or committees to study the impact of AI on state operations and policies. Lawmakers are also gathering data on AI usage within their states, particularly in government systems. Yale Law School’s Media Freedom and Information Access Clinic found that AI is already being utilized in various government tasks in Connecticut. Despite the growing interest in AI regulation, some states have yet to address the issue. In Hawaii, lawmakers passed the buck to the federal government by agreeing to a state resolution, urging Congress to adopt safety guidelines for AI and limit its use in the military and by police.
The European Union is leading the global effort in AI regulation, while discussions about bipartisan AI legislation are ongoing in the United States. State legislatures often feel the need to take action due to the slow pace of federal government involvement. Some state-level bills introduced this year address specific AI concerns, such as limitations on mental health providers and restrictions on AI usage in employment decisions. While the importance of regulating AI is recognized, there is also a desire to embrace its potential benefits. State lawmakers are looking to adapt education systems to include AI and computer science as foundational components. Overall, state legislatures are working to navigate the complexities of AI and strike a balance between regulation and innovation.
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