Key Takeaways
- Florida leaders are proposing new rules on the use of artificial intelligence to protect consumers, especially children, from harmful or misleading uses of AI.
- The proposed AI Bill of Rights would require AI chatbots to clearly disclose they are not human and give parents more control over how AI interacts with their kids.
- The bill would also give Floridians the right to sue if AI uses their name, image, or likeness without permission, including in commercial or political content.
- Governor Ron DeSantis has raised concerns about the risks of rapidly expanding AI, including the massive data centers required to power these platforms.
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence is increasingly becoming a part of our everyday lives, from chatbots answering questions to ads on social media and tools used at work and home. As AI continues to advance and become more integrated into our daily lives, Florida leaders say it’s time to set boundaries on its use. According to State Senator Tom Leek, "We do have a responsibility to make sure that the technology that’s developed is ethical, that it reinforces our values as both Floridians and Americans, and certainly, you know, we shouldn’t be trying to greenlight anything that’s going to displace human beings."
The Proposed AI Bill of Rights
State Senator Tom Leek has filed a proposal he calls an AI Bill of Rights, aimed at protecting consumers, especially children, from harmful or misleading uses of AI. The measure, Senate Bill 482, would take effect July 1, 2026, if passed. Among the bill’s key provisions, AI chatbots would be required to clearly disclose they are not human. As Governor Ron DeSantis said, "I think that artificial intelligence and what’s being pushed requires some thoughtfulness, and we have every right and duty to channel that in a way that is going to benefit our people and not in ways that will be harmful." Parents would also have increased control over how AI interacts with their children, including the ability to monitor, restrict, or disable their child’s AI accounts.
Protecting Children and Personal Data
The proposed AI Bill of Rights would give parents more control over how AI interacts with their kids. As Senator Leek said, "If this bill passes, parents won’t be in the dark about their children’s AI use. They’ll be able to monitor it, restrict it, or even shut it down entirely." This would help protect children from harmful or misleading uses of AI. Additionally, the bill would give Floridians the right to sue if AI uses their name, image, or likeness without permission, including in commercial or political content. This would help protect individuals’ personal data and prevent the misuse of AI.
Governor DeSantis’ Concerns
Governor Ron DeSantis has recently raised concerns about the risks of rapidly expanding AI, including the massive data centers required to power these platforms. As he said, "We do have a responsibility that this technology is ethical and reinforces our values as Floridians and Americans, and certainly we shouldn’t greenlight anything that is going to displace human beings." DeSantis’ concerns highlight the need for careful consideration and regulation of AI to ensure it benefits society and does not cause harm.
Upcoming Debates and Legislation
Lawmakers convene on January 13 for the next regular, 60-day session. Senator Leek said the bill will be part of early debates over how the state handles AI, privacy, and child safety. As AI continues to advance and become more integrated into our daily lives, it’s likely that there will be ongoing debates and discussions about how to regulate and use AI responsibly. The proposed AI Bill of Rights is an important step towards protecting consumers, especially children, from harmful or misleading uses of AI, and ensuring that AI is developed and used in a way that benefits society.
https://www.wesh.com/article/central-florida-senator-proposes-ai-bill-protect-kids/69980259