Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H8052

Introduced
2/27/26  

Caption

RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- PROCEDURE GENERALLY--, CAUSES OF ACTION

Impact

If enacted, H8052 would amend existing laws to create a civil cause of action specifically for individuals injured by AI. Developers of AI systems would face liability for injuries attributable to their systems, barring certain defenses regarding mental states or user negligence. This change would likely compel developers to increase their diligence in testing, managing, and refining AI technologies, ensuring they operate safely and effectively. Furthermore, the bill outlines conditions under which a rebuttable presumption of mental state can be established, thus simplifying punitive processes against developers in cases of harm.

Summary

House Bill 8052, introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly, seeks to address the complex legal landscape surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) by establishing clear liability for injuries caused by AI systems. The bill introduces a new section to Chapter 9-1 of the General Laws, focusing on 'Causes of Action,' and holds developers accountable for injuries resulting from AI systems that exhibit conduct equivalent to negligence or intentional torts by humans. This legislative effort arises from the growing recognition of AI's pervasive influence across multiple sectors, necessitating a framework that balances accountability with innovation.

Contention

While proponents argue that H8052 is a necessary step to ensure consumer protection and foster responsible AI development, critics may view it as overly burdensome for innovation. Notable points of contention include the potential for chilling effects on technology advancement and the appropriateness of placing liability solely on developers. There may be concerns regarding the broad application of liability for developers, especially in cases where the AI system receives incremental modifications from various users or entities, complicating accountability and oversight.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

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 S0270

Prohibits gender transition procedures for all minors, uses of public funds, discipline for health care providers, a 30 year statute of limitation, after reaching age of majority, and right to a civil action for damages.

RI H5557

Establishes prevailing standards and procedures for licensing speech-language pathologists and audiologists in Rhode Island.

RI S0471

Establishes prevailing standards and procedures for licensing speech-language pathologists and audiologists in Rhode Island.

RI S0277

Provides equal Medicare for infants born-alive as a result of abortion procedure/natural delivery with violations subject to criminal penalties for medical personnel/loss of license/civil action for damages.

RI H5959

Required public auctions by any city or town of real estate or an interest therein to only be done in person and not by electronic or remote procedures unless authorized by court order.

RI H5297

Sets standards and procedures to allow and implement conjugal visitation at state correctional facilities.

RI S0704

Mandates transparency in nursing home finances and would establish procedures for compliance.

RI H5013

HOUSE RESOLUTION AMENDING THE RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE YEARS 2023 AND 2024 (Requires the presiding officer to publish and provide to the House, a compilation of House procedures not addressed in the House rules or in Mason's manual of Legislative Procedures.)

Similar Bills

CA SB813

California AI Standards and Safety Commission: independent verification organizations.

HI HB1887

Relating To Artificial Intelligence Literacy Education.

HI SB2212

Relating To Artificial Intelligence Literacy Education.

HI SB2923

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NJ S2860

Establishes Artificial Intelligence Apprenticeship Program and artificial intelligence apprenticeship tax credit program.

NJ A4352

Requires school districts to provide instruction on artificial intelligence; requires Secretary of Higher Education to develop artificial intelligence model curricula.

NJ S1802

Requires artificial intelligence companies to conduct safety tests and report results to Office of Information Technology.

CA SB420

An act to add Chapter 24.