Lawmakers in Washington State have introduced a new bill aimed at regulating artificial intelligence, specifically targeting the emerging phenomenon of AI companion chatbots. Titled Senate Bill 5984, this legislation was introduced in Olympia and seeks to address the emotional and psychological impacts of interactions between humans and chatbots.
One of the bill’s sponsors, state Senator Sharon Shewmake, highlighted the growing trend of individuals forming emotional attachments to their chatbots. Citing concerns over mental health, Shewmake noted, “This comes out of stories about people falling in love with their chatbot.” With AI bots like ChatGPT and Character.AI gaining popularity for their availability and personalized interactions, the legislation proposes that such bots must clearly declare their non-human status every three hours.
The urgency surrounding this bill stems from serious incidents where chatbots have allegedly encouraged harmful behavior among vulnerable users. In one notable case, a bot reportedly assisted a user in writing a suicide note, raising alarms about the potential dangers of AI interactions.
As the legislative session begins, a review of over 500 bills reveals a wide array of proposals that reflect societal anxieties about technology. The rapid advance of AI has prompted lawmakers to grapple with its implications across various sectors, including employment, healthcare, and education.
In addition to regulations on chatbots, other proposed measures include bans on AI-driven hiring practices, which have been dubbed “no robo bosses,” and restrictions on AI systems that may surveil students or make disciplinary decisions without human oversight. There is a sense of urgency among lawmakers to ensure that human judgment remains integral in these areas.
The response to AI’s encroachment on daily life has not been limited to Washington State. Similar concerns have emerged nationwide, with legislators expressing frustration over their inability to keep pace with technological advancements. “I do not think anyone really knows what to do here,” Shewmake commented on the complexities surrounding AI regulation.
Beyond AI, lawmakers are also addressing other technological challenges. One proposal focuses on 3D-printed firearms, aiming to mandate that printers incorporate software capable of detecting and blocking gun blueprints. Another bill seeks to prevent employers from microchipping employees, highlighting growing concerns over privacy and autonomy.
Additionally, a controversial bill in Florida mandating monthly reports on weather-modifying aircraft has drawn criticism, with some lawmakers questioning the validity of the underlying beliefs driving such legislation.
As the political landscape evolves, the 2024 legislative session could see an intensified push against perceived overreach by technology and a concerted effort to safeguard civil liberties. Measures aimed at protecting voter databases from external influences and ensuring transparency in law enforcement practices are also on the agenda.
This year’s legislative themes underscore a growing recognition of the need to regain control over the forces shaping society, particularly those driven by technological advancements. As legislators navigate these challenges, the call for human involvement in decision-making processes has never been more pronounced.
In an era where technology often feels overwhelming, the sentiment expressed by one Florida legislator resonates: “We need to get grounded.” The ongoing discussions about AI and other technologies illustrate a crucial societal moment that demands attention and action.
