California Proposes New Rules for AI Automated Decision Making (Notification and Opt-Out Rights)
California's Privacy Protection Agency released draft regulations on November 27, 2023, governing automated decision-making technology (ADMT) that uses personal information. The regulations establish consumer opt-out rights for ADMT producing legal effects, profiling employees or job applicants, and tracking consumers in public spaces. Consumers must receive plain-language notices about ADMT use. The draft contrasts with pending legislation CA AB 331, which would mandate impact assessments and allow private lawsuits for algorithmic discrimination.
How AI Deepfakes in Elections Are Prompting New State Laws (Manipulated Media)
States are enacting legislation to combat AI-generated deepfakes in elections ahead of 2024. California and Texas passed laws in 2019, while Minnesota criminalized deepfake use and Washington mandated disclosure requirements this year. Michigan recently passed bills requiring AI disclosure in political ads and prohibiting manipulated media within 90 days of elections without disclaimers. Seven additional states introduced similar legislation, adapting existing campaign regulations to address AI-generated content threats.
State AI Legislation: Six Key Policy Areas Taking Shape This Year
State lawmakers introduced over 160 AI-related bills in 2023, though most failed to advance past committee stage. Legislation focused on six key areas: facial recognition technology, bias protections, deepfakes, social media regulation, government AI use, and study groups. Montana prohibited continuous facial surveillance by law enforcement, while Minnesota and Illinois passed laws addressing nonconsensual deepfake sexual content. Connecticut and Texas established AI inventories for state agencies.
What Is AI? State Lawmakers Search for a Legal Definition
State lawmakers are grappling with how to define artificial intelligence for regulatory purposes, with no universal definition yet established. Rhode Island's HB 6285 defines AI as technology simulating human intelligence, while Michigan's HB 5143 describes it as machine-based prediction systems. New York's AB 8129 avoids the term entirely, instead defining "automated systems." Governor Hochul recently signed legislation addressing deepfakes without defining AI directly.
AI Study Committees Emerge Across States Ahead of Legislative Session
State policymakers are in the education phase of AI regulation, with eight states creating dedicated study groups and 11 states assigning standing committees or agencies to examine the technology ahead of 2024 legislative sessions. New Mexico lawmakers heard testimony emphasizing transparency and disclosure requirements, while California AB 331 exemplifies early legislation mandating impact assessments and allowing private lawsuits for algorithmic discrimination.