Today, State Senator Derek Slap (D-West Hartford) voted with the Senate to advance critical protections for Connecticut residents in the digital age. Senate Bill 5, “An Act Concerning Online Safety,” addresses emerging harms from artificial intelligence, establishes workforce development programs, and positions Connecticut as a national leader in responsible AI policy.

“As AI continues to grow in use and functionality, we need to make sure we’re focused on keeping its use focused in the right direction,” said Sen. Slap. “That means reining in chatbots that have potential to harm, preventing potential hiring discrimination and making sure Connecticut residents are trained to utilize the technology to the best of their abilities. That’ll help us meet this moment and better prepare for the future. I’m grateful to Senator James Maroney for his extensive work on this important issue.”

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.

More than 70% of teenagers use AI companions, with about 50% using them on a regular basis. There have been numerous cases in the U.S. of teenagers who have disclosed suicidality to AI chatbots who not only did not offer mental health resources but even encouraged and assisted minor users in attempting or committing suicide.

Other crucial protections include employment disclosures and discrimination. Employees will be notified if AI is being used to make hiring and employment decisions, as these decisions greatly impact their careers and lives. Also, employers would not be able to use the deployment of AI decision technology for discriminatory employment decisions. If employers are prohibited from discriminating against employees, they should not be utilizing tools that have the same ultimate impact.

Various programs and partnerships in this bill will ensure that residents are educated on technical skills so that our state is home to a robust AI talent network and working people are not left behind as our world quickly modernizes.

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, which will equip them with essential AI knowledge and skills to prosper in a modern workplace.

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.

The responsible use of AI also offers potential to enhance the efficiency of government and serve constituents. Equipping Connecticut’s workforce with the skills and knowledge to utilize AI effectively is essential for realizing the full potential of this technology and ensuring a smooth and equitable transition into an AI economy.