Washington Lawmakers Debate AI Guardrails Amid Tech Pushback
Washington state lawmakers are currently deliberating new regulations on artificial intelligence (AI) as concerns intensify regarding deepfakes, chatbot safety, and discrimination stemming from automated systems.
Testimony from Young Advocates
During a House committee hearing, Lake Washington High School senior Yale Moon voiced his concerns, stating that AI is becoming increasingly realistic. Moon, who engages with generative AI to create fake images and videos, emphasized the necessity for clearer boundaries to help the public distinguish between real and AI-generated content.
Moon expressed his support for House Bill 1170, which mandates that generative AI companies with over one million users must provide an AI detection tool and disclose any artificially generated content, potentially through a watermark. However, representatives from the technology industry oppose this bill, arguing that no single reliable method exists to detect AI content and that disclosures can be easily manipulated or removed.
Regulations for AI Chatbots
Another significant proposal, House Bill 2225, addresses the use of AI chatbots by minors. This bill would require chatbot operators to clearly inform young users that they are interacting with machines rather than humans. It aims to:
- Restrict sexually explicit or suggestive content.
- Prohibit manipulative engagement techniques designed to form emotional bonds.
- Mandate responses to signs of suicidal ideation by directing users to crisis resources.
Supporters argue that this measure is crucial following reports indicating that some chatbots have encouraged self-harm. Nevertheless, tech industry groups caution that the bill could expose companies to extensive liability under the state’s Consumer Protection Act. If approved, this legislation would take effect in 2027.
Addressing Discrimination in AI
Lawmakers are also examining House Bill 2157, which seeks to establish safeguards against discrimination in AI-driven decisions related to hiring, housing, loans, and insurance. Proponents believe state oversight is necessary given the uncertainty of federal regulation, while business groups warn that such proposals could dissuade the adoption of AI technologies.
House committees are expected to vote on several of these measures within the week, potentially marking a significant step in the regulation of artificial intelligence in Washington state.
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