An act relating to the regulation of social media platforms and artificial intelligence systems
Profoundly, H0365 impacts state law by introducing requirements for both social media and artificial intelligence providers, creating a new framework for their operation within Vermont. Providers must now ensure they are not only transparent about their data collection and use policies but also implement adequate safety protocols to avoid potential harm, especially to minors. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address the evolving challenges posed by digital technologies on individual rights and consumer protection.
House Bill H0365 establishes new regulations concerning social media platforms and artificial intelligence systems to protect consumers in Vermont. The bill mandates that providers of these platforms register annually with the Secretary of State, paying a fee and agreeing to specific product safety and privacy terms. This legislative action aims to enhance the authority of the Attorney General in overseeing and enforcing compliance among providers, ensuring that they adhere to guidelines aimed at protecting users from algorithmic discrimination and other harms.
Opposition to the bill arises primarily from concerns about the burdensome nature of the registration requirements and the associated fees that might be seen as excessive for smaller, local platforms. Additionally, discussions have pointed to the complexity of ensuring compliance with the defined terms, which some stakeholders argue could stifle innovation in the tech sector. Nevertheless, proponents argue that the benefits in terms of heightened consumer protection outweigh the drawbacks, making a compelling case for the need for regulation in a rapidly changing digital landscape.