AI-Related Layoffs To Be Reported, per Proposed New Legislation

A Republican from Missouri and a Democrat from Virginia have proposed legislation that would require employers to report to the DOL any layoffs produced by the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI). One driving statistic is that AI is projected to increase unemployment by up to 20% in the next five years. Bernie Sanders has issued a group of proposals along that same line: these include “guaranteeing paid family and medical leave; enacting a “robot tax” on companies that heavily incorporate automation and AI; ending tax incentives for companies to invest in AI and automation over labor; and standardizing a 32-hour workweek with no loss in pay.” Other legislators from both parties have also introduced legislation proposals. On the state level, New York, California, Colorado and more states now require employers to take actions such as conducting bias audits, creating AI risk management policies or notifying applicants about their use of AI in hiring. 

Note:  Please contact VBS for a comprehensive AI Risk Management Policy.