Italy Enacts Comprehensive AI Law
On September 22, 2025, Italy’s parliament approved a groundbreaking law addressing artificial intelligence, making it the first country in the European Union to implement comprehensive regulations aligned with the EU’s AI Act. This legislation, spearheaded by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni‘s government, aims to establish a framework that prioritizes human-centric, transparent, and safe use of AI, while simultaneously promoting innovation, cybersecurity, and privacy protections.
Key Provisions of the Law
The newly enacted law introduces cross-sector regulations impacting various fields, including healthcare, work, public administration, justice, education, and sport. A central tenet of the legislation is the requirement for traceability and human oversight of AI decisions. Notably, the law restricts AI access for individuals under the age of 14, making parental consent mandatory.
Public Interest and Innovation
According to Alessio Butti, the undersecretary for digital transformation, this law aims to bring innovation back within the perimeter of the public interest, steering AI toward growth while ensuring the full protection of citizens’ rights. To oversee the development and implementation of AI, the government has designated the Agency for Digital Italy and the National Cybersecurity Agency as the national authorities. Existing watchdogs, such as the Bank of Italy and the market regulator Consob, will continue to exercise their powers in this space.
Criminal Provisions and Copyright Implications
The law introduces new criminal provisions targeting the unlawful dissemination of AI-generated content, including deepfakes. Offenders could face penalties ranging from one to five years in prison if such actions cause harm. Illegal use of AI will also incur harsher penalties for offenses like identity theft and fraud.
In terms of copyright, works created with AI assistance are protected if they result from intellectual effort. However, AI-driven text and data mining is only allowed for non-copyrighted content or for scientific research conducted by authorized institutions.
Investment in AI and Cybersecurity
The law authorizes the allocation of up to 1 billion euros (approximately $1.18 billion) from a state-backed venture capital fund aimed at investing in small to medium enterprises and larger companies involved in AI, cybersecurity, quantum technologies, and telecommunications. Critics, however, have pointed out that the resources provided are minimal compared to international initiatives.
Implications for Healthcare and Workplaces
In the healthcare sector, AI technologies may assist in diagnosis and patient care, although final decision-making authority remains with healthcare professionals, ensuring that patients are informed about their treatment options.
For workplaces, the law mandates that employers must inform employees when AI is being deployed, thus fostering transparency in the use of AI technologies in the working environment.
This comprehensive regulation marks a significant step in the governance of AI in Italy, setting a precedent for other nations as they navigate the complexities and challenges posed by rapidly advancing technologies.
