Groups representing the technology industry are urging Colorado Governor Jared Polis to veto the bill, saying it could harm small businesses developing cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology.
Senate Bill 205 establishes regulations governing the development and use of artificial intelligence in Colorado, with a focus on preventing “algorithmic discrimination.” Algorithmic discrimination refers to any situation in which AI “disadvantages” an individual or individuals and increases the risk of “unlawful discriminatory treatment.” Groups of people based on age, color, disability, ethnicity, genetic information, race, religion, veteran status, English proficiency, and other classes protected by state law. The law requires developers to take “reasonable care” to prevent discrimination when using “high-risk” artificial intelligence systems, defined as systems that involve “significant or consequential” decision-making. are required to pay. Provisions of the bill include requiring developers to implement risk management policies, complete impact assessments of high-risk systems, and notify consumers when artificial intelligence is used to make significant consumer decisions. It includes requiring that
A letter sent to the governor from the Chamber of Progress, the Consumer Technology Association and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce said the bill could stifle innovation and put small businesses at a disadvantage against large corporations. They are urging the bill to be vetoed.
“Guardrails are important where gaps exist in existing laws and regulations, including in areas such as AI,” the letter from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce states. “However, no comprehensive analysis was conducted to determine regulatory gaps before SB 205 was introduced, and this area has received little attention as the bill progresses through the legislative process. We believe Colorado should conduct a detailed and rigorous review of the proposed bill's impact on artificial intelligence for Colorado businesses and consumers before it becomes law. AI) Regulation. ”
Small business owners who testified against the bill during Congress made similar points and called on lawmakers to work with them toward a mutual solution.
“Innovation should be encouraged, not stifled, and any legislative action must balance consumers with promoting technological progress,” said Michael McReynolds of the Governor's Office of Information Technology. Stated. “This bill implements measures that may not be feasible or effective.”
But some tech companies support the bill, especially since similar regulations regarding artificial intelligence do not yet exist at the federal level.
Bust AI CEO Beth Ludden said the bill is a “realistic and necessary step” to preserve the integrity of artificial intelligence systems. He argued that the bill not only enforces compliance within the industry, but also holds developers accountable for unethical behavior.
“By supporting this bill, we commit to a path that respects consumer rights, promotes transparency, and fosters trust in the technologies that will shape our future,” she said. Concluded.
Polis has until June 7 to make a decision on the bill passed by this Congress. If no action is taken on a bill, it automatically becomes law.
