New York state has introduced significant legislation aimed at regulating the use of artificial intelligence (AI) within government agencies. Following its approval by state lawmakers earlier this year, the law was signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, and marks a proactive approach to the integration of this technology in public systems.
Under the new law, state agencies are mandated to conduct thorough assessments of any software that employs algorithms, computational models, or AI techniques. These evaluations must be submitted to the Governor's office as well as to top legislative leaders. Furthermore, the agencies are required to publish these reviews online to ensure transparency regarding their use of AI technologies.
In an effort to safeguard against potentially adverse outcomes, the legislation prohibits the use of AI in certain high-stakes situations. Specifically, it restricts automated decision-making processes concerning the provision of unemployment benefits and child care assistance unless these systems are subject to consistent human oversight. This aspect of the law aims to prevent automated processes from unduly influencing critical support decisions affecting residents of New York.
Senator Kristen Gonzalez, a Democrat who sponsored the bill, emphasised the importance of the new measure in providing essential guidelines for the responsible use of emerging AI technologies in state operations. Speaking to ABC 6 News, Gonzalez noted that the law serves as a fundamental step in establishing "guardrails" to protect individuals and ensure that AI is implemented in a controlled and ethical manner.
Additionally, the legislation includes provisions designed to protect state employees from having their working hours or job responsibilities curtailed due to the implementation of AI solutions. This protection aims to address concerns about job displacement and the evolving nature of work within the public sector in response to technological advancements.
The move comes amidst growing discussions in various sectors about the implications of AI and automation, particularly regarding their impacts on employment, governance, and societal norms. As New York joins a number of other jurisdictions examining regulations related to AI, the outcome of this legislation may serve as a model for future regulatory frameworks in other states and sectors.
Source: Noah Wire Services