Florida Senate Advances “AI Bill of Rights”
Florida lawmakers are moving forward with a sweeping proposal aimed at regulating artificial intelligence, advancing what supporters call an “AI Bill of Rights”. This initiative is part of Governor Ron DeSantis’s 2026 goals, highlighting the real risks posed by rapidly evolving technology, especially for children.
Legislative Intent
The legislation, sponsored by Sen. Tom Leek, R-St. Augustine, aims to establish new rules governing the use of artificial intelligence by both government agencies and private companies. Leek emphasizes that the proposal is intentionally narrow, focusing on privacy and child protection rather than broad regulation of AI technology itself.
Key Provisions
Among its key provisions, the bill would:
- Bar state and local governments from contracting with AI companies tied to certain foreign countries.
- Restrict companies from selling or sharing personal data unless it is stripped of identifying information.
- Add new protections for minors using AI-powered chatbots, requiring parental consent and oversight for certain “companion” chatbots designed to simulate human interaction.
- Limit the use of AI to generate or exploit a person’s name, image, or likeness without consent.
Bipartisan Support
Lawmakers from both parties have described the proposal as a necessary first step. Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith, D-Orlando, stated, “I think that this AI Bill of Rights is a strong and necessary first step. It recognizes that innovation and individual rights can go hand-in-hand.”
The measure has also garnered support from a wide range of outside groups, including family advocacy organizations and labor unions, who warn that the technology is advancing faster than existing safeguards. John Labriola of the Christian Family Coalition remarked, “The AI industry is a highly unregulated industry that really needs guardrails to be put in place.”
Concerns and Criticism
Despite the support, the bill is not without its critics. Some opponents caution that parental access requirements could push platforms to collect more identity data, potentially creating new privacy and security risks. Others argue that the proposal does not go far enough to address broader issues such as workplace automation, discrimination, or transparency in AI decision-making.
National Context
The debate occurs as President Donald Trump advocates for a national approach to AI regulation, warning against a patchwork of state laws that could hinder innovation and investment. Trump recently signed an executive order aimed at shaping federal AI policy, emphasizing the need for a uniform standard across states.
Sen. Leek aligns with this perspective, framing his bill as a stopgap until Congress acts. “I think President Trump is right,” Leek commented. “This is one of those issues on which we probably need to have a national standard. I just don’t think we can wait on Congress to act… You’re talking about protecting children.”
Next Steps
The bill still faces several more committee reviews in the Senate, and a companion measure must be passed through the House. Leek has indicated that changes to definitions and language are likely, but only if they strengthen the bill’s protections. If successful, the proposal is expected to reach the governor’s desk, where DeSantis is likely to sign it into law.
This initiative marks a significant step in the ongoing discourse on how to manage the implications of artificial intelligence in society, balancing innovation with essential protections.
