Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5356

Introduced
1/13/23  

Caption

Establishing guidelines for government procurement and use of automated decision systems in order to protect consumers, improve transparency, and create more market predictability.

Impact

If enacted, SB5356 would significantly influence state laws regarding how government entities engage with automated technologies in procurement processes. The guidelines established by the bill would necessitate greater accountability in the use of automated systems, which are increasingly prevalent in decision-making across various sectors. This could lead to enhanced consumer safeguards and legal recourse for individuals adversely affected by these automated systems, thereby reinforcing the importance of ethical standards in technology applications within the public domain.

Summary

SB5356 aims to establish clear guidelines for government procurement and the use of automated decision systems. The bill seeks to enhance consumer protection by ensuring transparency and predictability in the market. Through these guidelines, the legislation intends to create a framework that balances innovation in automated decision-making with essential consumer rights and safeguards. This legislative effort reflects a growing recognition of ethical considerations in technology use, especially in public sector decision making.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB5356 appears largely supportive, as it addresses important issues of transparency and consumer rights in the age of digital decision-making. Legislative discussions highlight a collective recognition of the need for oversight in automation to ensure that government actions remain fair and just. Stakeholders in technology and consumer advocacy groups have expressed cautious optimism about the bill, viewing it as a progressive step towards responsible technology use. However, there are voices of caution regarding the potential bureaucratic implications and compliance burdens it may place on government agencies.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns regarding the feasibility of implementing such guidelines across various government departments, as well as potential pushback from technology providers who may find compliance burdensome. There is also an ongoing debate about how to effectively balance innovation and regulation without stifling technological advancement or public sector efficiency. Additionally, some critics may express fear that overly stringent regulations could inhibit the benefits that automated systems can provide in government functions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1906

Increasing transparency and consumer protection in water system rates.

WA HB1303

Increasing environmental justice by improving government decisions.

WA SB5380

Increasing environmental justice by improving government decisions.

WA HB1065

Concerning online marketplace consumer product theft and safety protection.

WA SB5987

Improving consumer protection on gift certificates.

WA HB2094

Improving consumer protection on gift certificates.

WA HB1508

Improving consumer affordability through the health care cost transparency board.

WA SB5519

Improving consumer affordability through the health care cost transparency board.

WA SB5480

Protecting consumers by removing barriers created by medical debt.

WA HB1632

Protecting consumers by removing barriers created by medical debt.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.