New legislation clarifies generative AI's role in crime and sets disclosure requirements

During the recent 2024 General Legislative Session in Utah, lawmakers took significant steps towards regulating generative artificial intelligence (AI) with the introduction of a new bill. This legislation aims to clarify the definition of generative AI and establish guidelines for its use, particularly in relation to legal accountability.

The bill explicitly states that generative AI cannot be used as a defense for violating any laws. This means that individuals who utilize AI technologies in unlawful activities will still be held accountable for their actions. Furthermore, the legislation mandates basic disclosure requirements whenever generative AI is employed, whether in text messages, chatbots, or voice calls. This transparency is intended to protect consumers and ensure ethical use of AI technologies.

In addition to these provisions, the bill proposes the creation of an artificial intelligence regulatory lab. This lab will focus on the incorporation of synthetic data, defined as de-identified data, into the regulatory framework. By doing so, the legislation aims to address potential privacy concerns while fostering innovation in AI development.

Overall, this legislative move underscores Utah's commitment to balancing technological advancement with public safety and accountability. As the use of generative AI continues to grow, the implications of this bill will likely shape the future landscape of AI regulation in the state.