Pennsylvania Legislators Aim to Establish Guidelines for Safe AI Development
The Rise of AI Regulation in Pennsylvania
Rapid Advancements in AI Technology
Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot, have evolved swiftly in recent years. This fast-paced development has left many lawmakers and regulators scrambling to catch up. With these advancements, Pennsylvania legislators are now focused on creating laws and regulations that will help navigate the complexities associated with AI.
Legislative Efforts to Address AI
Pennsylvania officials are optimistic that by 2025, they will establish a solid framework for the safe development and use of AI in the state. The aim is to support a technology that has already been widely adopted across various sectors, including industry and government.
To jumpstart these initiatives, the Pennsylvania House has established a new Communications & Technology Committee. This committee will play a crucial role in reviewing AI-related legislative proposals. In the upcoming months, public policy hearings will be conducted throughout the state to gather insights from AI experts and stakeholders. By the fall, a report with recommendations for AI policy is anticipated from the General Assembly’s research arm.
Tackling AI Misuse
Tracy Pennycuick, the chair of the Senate Communications & Technology Committee, highlighted the difficulties lawmakers face in understanding AI’s intricacies. She emphasized that while consumer protection is essential, the potential for improving government efficiency through AI must also be considered.
Recent incidents of AI misuse—such as an occurrence at a local school where AI was used to create inappropriate images of minors—have accelerated the call for legislative action. Pennycuick has already advanced a law prohibiting deepfakes and child pornography. Additionally, she aims to categorize misleading deepfakes as forgeries.
A Growing List of AI Proposals
Within the first six months of the current legislative session, multiple AI-related proposals have been circulated. These range from requiring companies to disclose AI usage in their sales within Pennsylvania, proposed by Democratic Rep. Chris Pielli, to banning foreign AI software on state-owned devices, introduced by Democratic Rep. Napoleon Nelson.
Pennycuick is hopeful that several AI regulations will pass by the end of 2025. Last year, 31 states, including Pennsylvania, took steps towards AI legislation. Colorado stands out as the first state to implement a comprehensive AI law aimed at preventing discrimination against protected groups.
Balancing Regulation and Innovation
Pennsylvania lawmakers are striving to create regulations that promote innovation while avoiding excessive restrictions. Rep. Joe Ciresi, who chairs the House Communications & Technology Committee, pointed out the multiple meetings they have held with technology firms like Google, Microsoft, and TikTok. These discussions aim to understand the technological landscape better.
Ciresi stated, “We want legislation that has been thoroughly vetted, allowing everyone an opportunity to weigh in,” emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in crafting effective regulations.
Supporting AI Growth in Pennsylvania
Recent joint hearings by the Pennsylvania House and Senate committees discussed how to bolster AI development in western Pennsylvania. Testimony from various stakeholders, including economic development experts and AI researchers, underscored the potential for AI to enhance the state’s economy.
Ken Zapinski from Pittsburgh Works Together highlighted the broad range of jobs that AI could generate—though primarily for highly skilled individuals, it also requires foundational support from skilled trade workers.
Joanna Doven from the AI Strike Team urged legislators to pass supportive policies swiftly, noting the substantial energy requirements of AI data centers. Upcoming hearings in May and June are expected to explore how energy policy can facilitate AI innovation.
Moreover, Christopher Martin from BNY’s AI Hub suggested that lawmakers should focus on attracting young professionals in AI to create a thriving ecosystem within the state.
Recent Initiatives and Future Plans
In a recent committee meeting, proposals were considered to address AI misuse in political campaigns and to clarify copyright concerns regarding AI-generated content. The dynamic discussions reflect the lawmakers’ commitment to responsibly shaping the future of AI in Pennsylvania while balancing consumer protection and industry growth.
