NY lawmakers push AI safety bills

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10)---With only a few weeks left in the legislative session, lawmakers are hoping seven bills regarding Artificial Intelligence will make it across the finish line. 

"When we talk about regulating AI, we’re not talking about regulating the technology itself," explained Senator Kristen Gonzalez. "We want to continue to see that continue to grow and thrive and develop."

However, Gonzalez said she and other lawmakers want to make sure those who use this technology are protected. One bill is called the New York AI Act.

"This bill is a consumer protection bill," explained Gonzalez. "It makes sure there are impact assessments and audits of generative AI, which is a new type of AI, that can be risky. It encourages really positive business practices. The second bill we have is our Chatbot Liability Bill."

According to the bill, the chatbot’s company would be held liable for misleading or harmful information provided to a user that causes damage. 

Another bill, sponsored by Assemblymember Alex Bores, is called the RAISE Act. He said it relates to companies developing this new technology and research. 

"They have to have a safety plan, they have to have a third party audit that safety plan," explained Bores."They have to disclose critical safety incidents that will put New Yorkers at Risk and they have whistleblower protections, so if one of their employees or the 3rd party flags a catastrophic risk they’re not allowed to fire them for it."

The legislative session is scheduled to end in mid-June.