In a statement, Sen. Dodd highlighted the significance of the resolution, asserting that it positions California as a leader in conscientious AI deployment and application. The outlined principles, he stressed, are pivotal in safeguarding public rights while harnessing the advantages of AI. He expressed gratitude for the bipartisan support garnered by the resolution.

SCR 17, while nonbinding, reiterates the state’s alignment with President Biden’s vision of secure AI. The five guiding principles encompass Safe and Effective Systems, Algorithmic Discrimination Protections, Data Privacy, Notice and Explanation, and Human Alternatives, Consideration, and Fallback. These principles will shape the blueprinting, adoption, and execution of automated systems within the state.

A legislative analysis says that technology, data, and automated systems pose considerable challenges to democracy and public rights. Instances of flawed, unsafe, or biased systems in healthcare, prejudiced algorithms in hiring and credit determinations, and unregulated data aggregation endanger privacy and opportunities. However, the potential advantages of automated systems, such as enhanced efficiency in agriculture and revolutionary changes brought about by data analysis in industries, cannot be overlooked.

The Assembly’s unanimous voice vote followed prior passage in the Senate, underscoring the legislative consensus on the matter. The resolution does not require the governor’s endorsement, serving as a policy position of the California Legislature.