Legislators Limit Use of AI in Automatic Renewal of Driver’s Licenses, Public Benefits
7.17.2024
A new policy in New York that limits “automated decision-making” by artificial intelligence software at state agencies was passed late in the legislative session in Albany, a first of its kind law in the U.S.
Legislation passed by both Houses of the state legislature in New York automatically becomes law 10 days after it is delivered to the governor’s desk if she does not sign or veto it. The Legislature has until Dec. 31 to send the bill to the governor.
The legislation – S7543B/A9430B, or the LOADinG Act – regulates the use of software that relies on algorithms, and computer models, including AI.
Other states have passed laws on AI, and the Congress is mulling a number of bills that would restrict the use of the new technology. High-profile figures like Scarlett Johansson and other artists have complained that AI is being used to create “deep fakes” of their voices or images.
But the New York law, passed on June 5, goes after an even more controversial aspect of the technology, the ability to automate government decisions, without a real person signing off on the process.
The bill was sponsored by state Sen. Kristen Gonzalez, a former aide to President Obama and Sen. Chuck Schumer, who noted that agencies use automated decision-making to “issue driver’s licenses, award public benefits, process low-income housing applications, and review state taxes.”
The law will:
- Provide public notice when state agencies use these AI systems.
- Require direct human review and oversight, with a report to the governor every two years, on the use of the technology.
- Prohibit using the technology to replace government workers.
As chair of the Internet and Technology Committee, Gonzalez said the Legislature must focus on oversight of AI, including continuous assessment for bias and efficacy.
Gene J. Koprowski is a member of NYSBA’s Communications and Publications Committee, an arbitrator with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority in Washington D.C. and an award-winning journalist who spent 35 years working for United Press International and other leading media.
