Maine House Bill LD872

Maine 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/4/25
• Refer: 3/4/25
• Refer: 3/18/25
• Failed: 6/9/25

Caption

An Act to Ensure Determinations Made by the State Are Free from Unethical, Unsafe or Illegal Interference by Artificial Intelligence

Impact

Should LD872 be enacted, it will introduce a stringent framework regulating the procurement and use of AI in governmental processes. State agencies will be required to utilize only those AI systems that have been vetted and approved based on these new criteria. This legislation has the potential to reshape how state agencies interact with technology, ensuring decisions are made transparently and ethically. Additionally, it fosters a framework for residents to easily understand and contest decisions made by AI systems, reinforcing their rights under the Constitution.

Summary

LD872, titled 'An Act to Ensure Determinations Made by the State Are Free from Unethical, Unsafe or Illegal Interference by Artificial Intelligence', aims to regulate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) within state agencies. The bill mandates that any AI software employed by the State must conform to established ethical, legal, and safety standards. This goal is to ensure that the State maintains intentional control over AI systems and enables compliance with constitutional requirements, particularly around due process for residents affected by the decisions made using AI technology. Through this legislation, the State intends to protect both its own interests and the rights of its residents when government decisions are influenced by AI systems.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding LD872 is largely supportive, as it aligns with growing public concern over the ethical implications of AI in decision making. Advocates for the bill, including legislators and ethical watchdogs, view it as a necessary step to protect civil liberties and maintain governmental accountability. However, some critics express concerns about the practicality of implementing these regulations, worrying that the stringent requirements could slow down the adoption of beneficial technologies within the public sector. This dichotomy highlights a broader societal debate about the balance between innovation and safeguarding ethical standards in technology usage.

Contention

The notable points of contention regarding LD872 center on the feasibility of establishing and maintaining a comprehensive list of approved AI software, as well as the standards governing their use. Opponents of the bill argue that the proposed regulations could hinder the adoption of innovative AI solutions within government operations, potentially resulting in bureaucratic overload. Proponents counter that without these regulations, there is a risk of unethical practices and a loss of public trust in government decisions, especially as AI increasingly influences critical areas of public life.