In short:
- Governor Jared Polis signs AI surveillance bill SB26-189
- SB26-189 covers housing, employment, health care, and insurance
- Senate Majority Leader Robert Rodriguez supports AI transparency
- SB26-137 requires a five-year review of state agency regulations.
Colorado lawmakers and business leaders on Thursday highlighted two new laws aimed at shaping oversight of artificial intelligence and reducing the state’s regulatory burden, with supporters saying the measures are aimed at supporting innovation and improving the state’s business environment.
One of the bills, SB26-189, establishes new requirements and safeguards for the use of automated decision-making technology in areas such as housing, employment, health care, and insurance. Supporters said the law aims to balance consumer protection with flexibility for companies that develop or use AI tools.
“This is a big step in the right direction for Colorado and sets an example for other states,” Gov. Jared Polis said in a statement, adding that replacing the previous law before it goes into effect will help support innovation and entrepreneurship in the state.
Senate Minority Leader Robert Rodriguez (D-Denver) said the bill aims to ensure transparency when AI systems are used to make important decisions that affect consumers. He said the law would give residents an opportunity to correct mistakes if automated systems affected their access to housing, jobs, health care or insurance.
Lawmakers also noted that the measure is part of a broader push for Colorado to establish itself as a hub for technology and entrepreneurship while setting standards for AI governance.
Polis also signed SB26-137, which requires Colorado regulators to review their rules every five years. Supporters said the law aims to reduce outdated and duplicative regulations and improve government accountability.
Sen. Cleve Simpson said the measure would create a more predictable regulatory environment for businesses and communities across the state. Senate President James Coleman said the legislation would require agencies to evaluate which regulations remain in effect and which can be streamlined.
House Minority Leader Jarvis Caldwell said the bill would require government agencies to justify existing rules and eliminate regulations that no longer serve the public interest.
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