Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7786

Introduced
2/29/24  

Caption

Requires companies that develop or deploy high-risk AI systems to conduct impact assessments and adopt risk management programs, would apply to both developers and deployers of AI systems with different obligations based on their role in AI ecosystem.

Impact

If enacted, HB 7786 would establish explicit legal requirements for businesses that develop and deploy consequential AI systems, thus amending the existing commercial laws within the state. Organizations will be obliged to maintain comprehensive documentation related to the AI systems' purposes, functionalities, and the data processes involved. The new regulations are designed to protect individuals from potential biases in AI decision-making that could lead to discrimination in crucial areas like housing, employment, and healthcare.

Summary

House Bill 7786 aims to regulate the use of high-risk artificial intelligence (AI) systems by requiring developers and deployers to conduct detailed impact assessments and establish risk management programs. The bill emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in AI technologies that can make significant decisions affecting individuals' lives. By mandating these assessments, the bill seeks to ensure that AI systems do not disproportionately harm individuals, particularly concerning protected characteristics such as race, gender, and socioeconomic status.

Contention

There are expected points of contention surrounding the bill, especially regarding the balance between fostering innovation in AI technology and ensuring adequate protections against potential misuse. Stakeholders might debate the effectiveness of the mandatory impact assessments and whether they might impose excessive burdens on smaller developers and startups. Critics may argue that these regulations could stifle innovation or create compliance difficulties, while proponents may insist that such safeguards are necessary to build public trust in AI systems.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H6423

House Resolution Respectfully Requesting The Department Of Administration And The Office Of Information Technology To Review And Evaluate The Use And Development Of Artificial Intelligence (ai) And Automated Decision Systems And Provide Recommendations Regarding Ongoing And Upcoming Plans To Expand Their Use And Current Security And Implementation Procedures

RI H6121

Core State Behavioral Health Crisis Services Systems

RI S0779

Core State Behavioral Health Crisis Services Systems

RI S0595

Rhode Island Development Impact Fee Act

RI S0550

The Rhode Island Small Business Development Fund

RI H6003

The Rhode Island Small Business Development Fund

RI S0636

Racial Impact Assessment Act

RI H5833

Tourism And Development

RI S0482

The Office Of Early Childhood Development And Learning

RI H6378

The Office Of Early Childhood Development And Learning

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.