Governor Signs Bill to Study Artificial Intelligence

Governor Cuomo signed legislation (S.3971B/A.1746C) creating a temporary state commission to study and investigate how to regulate artificial intelligence, robotics and automation. The commission will look at the latest uses and impacts of these technologies to determine how the State can best utilize and regulate them as necessary. The commission will examine how artificial intelligence, robotics and automation affect employment in New York State, acquire and disclose people’s personal information, affect technology industries, can be used by the public sector to enhance performance and services, and may be used in unlawful or unsafe ways. The commission will also examine how these innovative technologies have been used and regulated by other states, determine whether current New York laws are effective in regulating them, and make recommendations for how the State can leverage existing uses and, if necessary, update laws to protect industries and residents.

The commission will consist of 13 members: five appointed by the Governor; two by the temporary president of the Senate; one by the minority leader of the Senate; two by the speaker of the Assembly; one by the minority leader of the Assembly; one by the SUNY chancellor; and one by the CUNY chancellor. Upon completion of its study, the commission will issue a final report, by December 1, 2020 with its findings and recommendations to the Governor and legislative leaders.

Governor Cuomo said:

“Artificial intelligence and automation are already having a profound impact across many industries and their influence keeps growing, so it’s critical that we do everything in our power to understand their capabilities and potential pitfalls. This new commission will look closely at how these rapidly evolving technologies are functioning and report back on how we can optimize use to benefit New Yorkers and our economy.”