Alabama Lawmakers Push Forward with AI Regulation
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Alabama lawmakers are actively introducing bills aimed at regulating the use of artificial intelligence (AI) within the state. These legislative efforts encompass a range of issues, from age verification requirements for AI chatbots to the utilization of AI in healthcare decisions.
Federal Constraints and Executive Orders
Recently, a presidential executive order issued by President Trump has created limitations on how states can enact AI-related laws. This order cautions that states adopting stringent AI regulations may forfeit additional federal internet funding. The intent behind this directive is to streamline regulations and avoid creating confusion for companies operating in multiple states.
Proposed Legislation in Alabama
Despite these federal constraints, Alabama legislators are striving to formulate bills that protect citizens while adhering to the executive order. One notable proposal from House Representative Parker Moore mandates that chatbots verify users’ ages and present themselves as cartoon characters when interacting with minors.
Moore stated, “When you’re young, you have a very impressionable mind,” emphasizing the need for safety measures in interactions with realistic chatbots. The proposed legislation aims to include regular reminders for children, informing them that they are conversing with a bot.
Emotional Safety and AI in Therapy
The bill does permit the use of therapy chatbots by psychiatrists to support teens and minors, acknowledging the potential benefits of AI in providing emotional support. Moore remarked, “I think that there are tools that AI is really good at, but that can be taken advantage of.” This highlights the importance of establishing safety guardrails while leveraging AI technology.
Bipartisan Support for Child Protection
The broad appeal of this legislation is reflected in its bipartisan support. Moore noted, “I don’t think that protecting our children, especially those that are most vulnerable, is a partisan issue at all.” This collaborative effort aims to advance the bill through the legislative process.
Healthcare AI Regulations
In addition to chatbot regulations, State Senator Arthur Orr has introduced a bill requiring health insurance companies to have a human healthcare professional make final decisions on coverage denials. While insurers can utilize AI to filter claims, a qualified doctor must approve any denials.
Orr asserted, “I would think that getting reviewed by a human that can see all the evidence” is critical in healthcare decision-making, as opposed to relying solely on algorithms.
Content Labeling and Deepfake Legislation
Furthermore, House Bill 129 seeks to mandate clear labeling of content created or substantially modified by AI. This initiative aims to help citizens distinguish between human-created and AI-generated media. Meanwhile, Senate Bill 291 addresses the increasing threat of deepfakes by making it illegal to create and distribute AI-generated fake videos or images that misrepresent individuals.
These legislative efforts in Alabama illustrate a proactive stance toward managing AI technologies while ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.
