Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7767

Introduced
2/12/26  

Caption

RELATING TO LABOR AND LABOR RELATIONS -- ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE USE, AND FAIR EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES

Impact

The legislation mandates employers to conduct impact assessments before implementing electronic monitoring tools or automated decision systems. This process ensures that employee privacy and safety are considered, while also evaluating potential biases within the systems. The bill further establishes protections against retaliation, ensuring employees cannot face adverse actions for reporting concerns regarding AI decisions that could harm individuals or violate labor laws. This frame of reference represents a significant shift in labor and privacy regulations concerning technological advancements in the workplace.

Summary

House Bill 7767 aims to regulate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and automated decision systems in the workplace, ensuring that employee rights and consumer protections are upheld. The bill introduces a statutory framework that addresses ethical concerns regarding AI, focusing on mitigating biases and ensuring transparency in automated decision-making processes. It requires employers to disclose monitoring practices and the specific purposes for which data is collected, thus fostering a more informed workplace environment.

Contention

There may be notable contention surrounding the implementation of this bill, particularly concerning the balance between technological advancement and privacy rights. Opponents may argue that the required assessments and disclosures could hinder businesses' ability to leverage AI for efficiency. On the other hand, proponents emphasize the need for these regulations to prevent potential misuse of AI and automated tools, arguing that they serve to protect not only employees' rights but also consumer interests against automated biases. The bill fosters dialogue on the ethical application of emerging technologies in workplaces and aims to create a more equitable environment.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0013

Promotes transparency and accountability in the use of artificial intelligence by health insurers to manage coverage and claims.

RI H5172

Would promote transparency and accountability in the use of artificial intelligence by health insurers to manage coverage and claims.

RI H5224

Provides a civil cause of action for individuals injured by artificial intelligence.

RI S0358

Provides a civil cause of action for individuals injured by artificial intelligence.

RI H5123

Requires DOA provide inventory of all state agencies using artificial intelligence (AI); establishes a 13 member permanent commission to monitor the use of AI in state government and makes recommendations for state government policy and other decisions.

RI S0008

SENATE RESOLUTION AMENDING THE RULES OF THE SENATE FOR THE YEARS 2023-2024 (This resolution would amend the rules of the Senate relative to committees and would create a new committee on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.)

RI H6161

Updates and expands the current law to include menopause and menopause related conditions in the law on fair employment practices pertaining to pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions.

RI S0361

Updates and expands the current law to include menopause and menopause related conditions in the law on fair employment practices pertaining to pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions.

RI H5763

Allows any retired member of the state retirement system to serve as a member of the state labor relations board.

RI H5187

Expands the definition of "employee," and clarifies that the board may defer a pending unfair labor practice charge to allow for the grievance and arbitration process to move forward pursuant to the charging parties collective bargaining agreement.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.