Archive: News

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo signed legislation (S.3971B/A.1746C) Wednesday creating a temporary state commission to study and investigate how to regulate artificial intelligence, robotics and automation. The New York State Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Automation 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.

"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," Cuomo said. "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."

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
• 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. This review will include meetings with key stakeholder groups to understand the full landscape of AI, robotics and automation as emerging technologies within the business, nonprofit, academic and governmental sectors.

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 with its findings and recommendations to the Governor and legislative leaders.

Assembly Member Clyde Vanel, Chair of the Assembly Subcommittee on Internet and New Technology, said, "It is very important for our state and country to lead in the newest technologies and innovation. We have to make sure that New Yorkers are properly positioned for the jobs and opportunities of tomorrow. While at the same time, ethical, moral and privacy issues must be at the forefront of our efforts."

v15i28