Hughes Introduces SB 177 AI, Data Privacy, Cybersecurity, Deepfakes
Just prior to the session kicking off, I pre-filed SB177 which pertains to state agencies’ use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), data privacy, cybersecurity, and political deepfakes.
With the increasing availability of AI to streamline work processes, transparency and guidelines for the use of AI by state agencies is paramount to ensure appropriate deployment and to protect Alaskans from potential harm. By requiring human oversight/responsibility for AI, a publicly posted inventory of AI in use by state agencies, and regular impact assessments – which would include a review and public report of benefits, liabilities, risks, accountability mechanisms in place, decision appeal processes, and effects on the liberty, finances, livelihood and privacy interest of individuals among other items – we will ensure AI is working for the people of Alaska appropriately.
AI is evolving ever-quickly; it is the new frontier.
AI is evolving ever-quickly; it is the new frontier. We cannot stop it. It is already part of our daily lives (for example, every time you use your map program on your smartphone). As policymakers, we must work to harness this tool for good and safeguard against bad actors. It is also vital we take the individual Alaskan into account; with the vast amount of data state agencies have and may input into algorithms that generate AI outputs, we must ensure data privacy and cybersecurity are as airtight as possible.
This bill also addresses political deepfakes, digital alterations of a person, usually employed to spread false information with malevolent intentions. I believe that with elections later in 2024 it is important the legislature address this relatively new AI phenomenon. With easily accessible AI available to develop deepfakes, the likelihood of their creation during the 2024 election cycle is inevitable. My bill would require a clear disclosure on a political deepfake that the communication has been manipulated by AI.
AI is likely to play an increasing role in work activities and in political communications. Setting parameters for state agencies and protecting Alaskans when it comes to AI – that is the purpose of this legislation. I look forward to a lively discussion with the legislature and citizens about this emerging technology, this digital frontier, as it relates to the public arena.
