Last year we saw the explosion of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI). For those that might need a quick lesson, generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is artificial intelligence capable of generating text, images and other media. The most popular GenAI platform amongst consumers is arguably ChatGPT that was launched in late 2022 and blew up in 2023. ChatGPT (Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer) is a chatbot based on large language model. In 2023 it became the fastest growing consumer software application. It seemed that every company was wondering how ChatGPT would change the business landscape.
Forbes reported that “Generative AI is quickly becoming more widely adopted as enterprises are beginning to utilize it for a variety of tasks, including marketing, customer service, sales, learning and client relationships.” Barron’s wrote that “[t]he rise of generative artificial intelligence heralds a new stage of the Industrial Revolution, one where machines think, learn, self-replicate, and can master many tasks that were once reserved for humans.”
Personally, I find this to be super-awesome and super-scary. Even Elon Musk stated that AI has the potential to become the “most disruptive force in history” - that could be good and bad.
Florida’s Legislature Has Something to Say
Recognizing the need for responsible AI governance, Florida's legislature has taken a proactive approach by proposing laws and bills aimed at regulating the development and deployment of AI technologies. One notable piece of legislation is Florida Senate Bill 972 (SB 972), which addresses key aspects of AI regulation. Florida's legislators have acknowledged the importance of creating a regulatory framework to guide the responsible use of AI, striking a balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding the interests of citizens.
Overview of Florida's AI Legislation
Several bills and proposed laws have been introduced in Florida to address the challenges posed by AI. These legislative efforts aim to establish clear guidelines for the development, deployment, and use of AI systems. SB 972 attempts to create an Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council within the Department of Management Services. The purpose of the council is to study and monitor the development and deployment of artificial intelligence systems in state government.
Under the proposed law, the council shall do all of the following:
1. Assess the need for legislative reform and the creation of a state code of ethics for the use of artificial intelligence systems in state government.
2. Study and monitor the effects of automated decision systems on the constitutional and legal rights, duties, and privileges of the residents of this state.
3. Study and monitor the potential benefits, liabilities, and risks that the state, private residents, and businesses could incur as a result of implemented automated decision systems.
4. Recommend administrative and legislative actions that state governmental agencies and the Legislature can use to promote the development of artificial intelligence in this state.
Conclusion
Florida's journey toward AI regulation reflects a commitment to responsible and ethical technological innovation. SB 972, along with other proposed laws, signifies a step forward in addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders and citizens alike will closely watch the developments, anticipating a future where AI can thrive within a well-defined ethical framework.
~ Florida Cyber Lawyer, Robert Stines Esq.
