BOISE, Idaho — Artificial intelligence continues to reshape technology and how we live our day to day lives. Now, Idaho lawmakers are taking proactive steps to understand and possibly regulate the growing impact of AI and associated technologies.
A newly formed Artificial Intelligence Working Group is leading the charge at the Idaho Statehouse, aiming to bring together lawmakers and AI experts to learn more about the multifaceted implications of AI across Idaho industries and businesses.
Meridian Rep. Jeff Ehlers, co-chair of the working group, highlighted the scope of AI's potential influence, noting major areas of focus including "education, criminal justice, business, legal elections, and data sets."
Gem State lawmakers have already made initial strides into AI legislation, passing three targeted laws in the 2024 session: criminalizing AI-generated child pornography, prohibiting deep fakes in elections, and outlawing AI-created media intended to harass or intimidate.
Sen. Kelly Anthon of Burley co-chair’s the group, he emphasized the technology's far-reaching potential, stating it will "permeate almost every corner of policy" in the coming years and decades.
Legal expert Brad Frazer from Hawley Troxell warned about complex legal considerations, particularly surrounding non-disclosure agreements and trade secrets. He suggested potential legislative approaches to protect businesses from inadvertent information disclosure through AI platforms.
"We want to make sure that non-disclosure agreements have provisions that prevent disclosure to AI," Frazer explained. He proposed legislation that could automatically protect trade secrets when Idaho companies interact with AI systems.
Lawmakers recognize this will be a long-term process of understanding and adapting to rapidly evolving technology. The working group plans to meet again before January to refine their legislative approach.
As AI continues to advance, Idaho's legislators are positioning themselves to be proactive rather than reactive in addressing its challenges and opportunities.