NYC bill would protect New Yorkers from rogue artificial intelligence
NYC bill would protect New Yorkers from rogue artificial intelligence
Publish Date: 2026-05-23 12:08:00
Source Domain: nypost.com
-
Introduction of the Bill: Councilwoman Julie Won introduced a new bill aiming to prevent artificial intelligence from displacing New Yorkers’ jobs and ensuring it doesn’t exploit them.
-
Creation of the Office: The bill seeks to establish a “first-of-its-kind” Office of Artificial Intelligence Oversight within the city’s Department of Consumer and Worker Protection.
-
Purpose of the Office: This new office would supervise the use of AI bots and algorithmic tools to prevent their misuse in denying people opportunities in jobs, housing, credit, and access to government services.
-
Bipartisan Support: The bill has received support from multiple council members including Virginia Maloney (D-Manhattan) and Frank Morano (R-Staten Island), showing cross-party backing.
-
Concerns Over AI Exploitation: Councilmember Won emphasized the vulnerability of her constituents, who are likely to suffer from unchecked AI exploitation without sufficient means to fight back.
-
Addressing Existing Inefficiencies: Despite a local law already in place to regulate AI in hiring, an audit revealed severe flaws in its enforcement, underscoring the need for stricter supervision.
-
Consumer Protection Focus: The new office would step in when AI algorithms deceive or exploit consumers, providing mechanisms for recourse and penalties for such violations.
-
Current Legislation Limitations: An audit found that the existing 2021 law regulating automated employment decision tools lacks effective enforcement and a robust complaint-handing and review process.