Maroney, Duff Statement on House Passing AI Bill
Today, the House passed Senate Bill 5, ‘An Act Concerning Online Safety,’ sending the legislation to Governor Ned Lamont’s desk. The bill, which Senator James Maroney (D-Milford) led Senate passage of, establishes critical protections against artificial intelligence harms, expands workforce development programs, and positions Connecticut as a national leader in responsible AI policy.
“Today the House sent a clear message: you can both protect residents and promote innovation,” said Sen. Maroney. “This bill will shield vulnerable people from dangerous chatbots, ensure workers are treated fairly, and lay the groundwork for Connecticut to become the most AI literate state in the nation. We are working together as a state to ensure that all residents have the tools they need to flourish in the AI age.”
“Connecticut has once again shown that states don’t have to wait for Washington to act in the best interests of their residents,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk). “This bill protects our children, safeguards workers, and ensures our state is building the AI-ready workforce of tomorrow. I’m proud of the strong bipartisan momentum behind this legislation and thrilled to see it advance”
Protection for Residents
Senate Bill 5 advances critical AI legislation to protect Connecticut residents from emerging digital harms. It will require AI chatbot operators to make reasonable efforts to detect suicidal ideations or indicators of self-harm expressed by users and have a protocol to respond with appropriate resources. Other crucial protections include employment disclosures and discrimination.
Empower and Promote a Responsible AI Workforce and Economic Development
Various programs and partnerships in this bill will ensure that residents are educated on technical skills. Training and information provided to nonprofits and small businesses will increase their AI literacy so they can apply efficiencies to their operations and function well in this new technological landscape.
Partnerships with the Department of Housing, Labor Department, and the Secretary of State will help connect Connecticut residents to the AI Academy.
This bill will also establish an AI sandbox program. The program will provide an environment where development and collaboration can thrive, leading to breakthroughs and advancements while ensuring appropriate regulatory oversight.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Michelle Rappaport | Michelle.Rappaport@cga.ct.gov | 860-240-8671
