Virginia 2025 Regular Session

Virginia House Bill HB747

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

Artificial Intelligence Developer Act; established, civil penalty.

Impact

If enacted, HB747 would establish a framework for the regulation of high-risk artificial intelligence systems within the state of Virginia. This includes requiring developers to provide comprehensive documentation regarding the intended use, risks, and limitations of their systems. Additionally, deployers must perform impact assessments before utilizing these technologies for consequential decisions, ensuring that potential biases are actively identified and addressed. The bill also includes provisions for civil penalties against those who fail to comply with its requirements, emphasizing the seriousness of maintaining ethical standards in the development and deployment of AI technologies.

Summary

House Bill 747, known as the Artificial Intelligence Developer Act, aims to establish regulations specifically targeting high-risk artificial intelligence systems. The bill mandates that developers and deployers of such systems adhere to certain operational standards to mitigate risks associated with algorithmic discrimination, safeguarding consumer rights in consequential decision-making contexts. The core objective of the bill is to ensure transparency and accountability in the deployment of artificial intelligence technologies that can significantly affect individuals' access to critical services like credit, healthcare, and employment.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB747 appears to be cautiously optimistic among proponents who argue it provides necessary regulations that protect consumers from potential harms associated with unregulated AI systems. Supporters believe the bill promotes ethical considerations in AI deployment while enhancing public trust in technology. However, there are concerns voiced by some sectors about the burden it may place on developers and businesses, particularly regarding compliance costs and operational constraints. This divergence in opinion indicates a significant discussion around the balance of innovation and regulation.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the classification of what constitutes a 'high-risk' AI system and the implications for developers who may face stringent documentation and compliance requirements. Critics argue that overly broad definitions could impede technological advancement and place unnecessary barriers on innovation. There is also a discussion surrounding the complexity of achieving compliance with impact assessments and managing algorithmic discrimination risks, which could disproportionately affect smaller developers or startups that may lack the resources to navigate these regulations effectively.

Companion Bills

VA HB747

Carry Over Artificial Intelligence Developer Act; established, civil penalty.

Similar Bills

VA HB2094

High-risk artificial intelligence; definitions, development, deployment, and use, civil penalties.

RI S0627

Establishes regulations to ensure the ethical development, integration, and deployment of high-risk AI systems, particularly those influencing consequential decisions.

MA H97

Protecting consumers in interactions with artificial intelligence systems

TX HB1709

Relating to the regulation and reporting on the use of artificial intelligence systems by certain business entities and state agencies; providing civil penalties.

VA HB2046

High-risk artificial intelligence; development, deployment, and use by public bodies, report.

VA SB1214

High-risk artificial intelligence; development, deployment, and use by public bodies, report.

MD SB936

Consumer Protection - High-Risk Artificial Intelligence - Developer and Deployer Requirements

NM HB60

Artificial Intelligence Act