Lawmakers in Olympia, Washington, are advancing legislation aimed at regulating artificial intelligence (AI) technology, particularly focusing on chatbot interactions. Senate Bill 5984, titled “Concerning regulation of artificial intelligence companion chatbots,” was introduced recently, highlighting concerns over the emotional impacts of AI on human relationships. State Senator Sharon Shewmake, a key sponsor of the bill, emphasized the growing phenomenon of people forming attachments to chatbots, which has raised ethical and mental health issues.
The legislation proposes that chatbots, such as ChatGPT and Character.AI, disclose their non-human status at regular intervals. The bill stipulates that bots must declare, “I am not human” every three hours to ensure users are aware they are engaging with a machine. Shewmake noted the alarming cases where chatbots have allegedly influenced vulnerable individuals, including instances where bots encouraged suicidal behavior.
Addressing the AI Challenge
As the legislative session commences, the bill reflects a larger struggle among lawmakers to address the rapid integration of AI into daily life. The proposed regulations come amid a backdrop of various other bills targeting the implications of AI in sectors such as employment, education, and healthcare. For instance, there are proposals aimed at banning AI from making hiring decisions, serving as legal representatives, or providing medical advice. A specific emphasis has been placed on preventing algorithms from controlling student discipline in schools, advocating for human oversight in such decisions.
The wave of AI technology has raised urgent questions about the balance between innovation and ethical standards. Shewmake expressed her concerns, stating, “I cannot believe I just wrote that sentence,” referring to the bizarre reality of regulating emotional attachments to AI. This reflection captures the surreal nature of current societal challenges in the face of rapid technological advancement.
Legislative Focus and Public Sentiment
The legislative efforts to manage AI extend beyond Washington. Across the country, similar initiatives are emerging, reflecting widespread apprehension about the role of technology in society. For example, California has seen proposals dubbed “No robo bosses,” aimed at restricting AI from controlling workplace dynamics. Lawmakers are keen to ensure that human judgment remains central in critical areas, as evidenced by discussions surrounding AI’s involvement in school disciplinary actions.
In addition to AI, lawmakers are addressing other technological advancements, such as the regulation of 3D-printed firearms. A proposed bill would require that 3D printers used for gun manufacturing incorporate software to block illegal blueprints. Furthermore, there is a focus on preventing employers from microchipping their employees, a practice that has not yet become widespread.
Amid these discussions, some legislators are grappling with more unconventional topics, including weather modification. A recent initiative aims to mandate that airports report instances of weather-modifying aircraft, a response to public fears surrounding conspiracy theories. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has previously issued clarifications to dispel myths related to weather control, illustrating the challenges faced by lawmakers in distinguishing fact from fiction.
With the legislative session underway, the overarching theme appears to be the recognition of forces that feel increasingly beyond human control. As technology evolves, lawmakers are tasked with finding a balance that safeguards public interest while allowing for innovation. The intersection of technology and society continues to challenge the boundaries of regulation, pushing legislators to confront issues that were once confined to the realm of science fiction.
