Substitute Senate Bill No. 1249 aims to improve data management and utilization within Connecticut's executive branch, particularly concerning artificial intelligence (AI) innovations. The bill establishes the position of Chief Data Officer within the Office of Policy and Management, who will oversee data management, facilitate data sharing, and create a state data plan every two years. Each executive branch agency must appoint an agency data officer to implement these provisions and respond to data access requests. Notably, the Chief Data Officer is required to review the inventory of high-value data by January 1, 2026, to identify data suitable for AI applications, while also developing policies for data quality and governance. The previous subsection (j) has been deleted and replaced with new provisions under subsection (k) to reflect these changes.

Additionally, the bill mandates the creation of an Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Technology Investment Fund, managed by Connecticut Innovations, Inc., which can invest up to $50 million in companies developing AI and quantum technologies. The bill also introduces an AI regulatory sandbox program, allowing for the testing of innovative AI products under reduced regulatory requirements, with a plan to be developed by the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development by July 1, 2025. Furthermore, it clarifies that the involvement of AI systems cannot be used as a defense in civil or administrative claims, particularly in discrimination cases. The effective dates for various provisions are set for July 1, 2025, and October 1, 2025, for specific defense prohibitions.

Statutes affected:
Governor's Bill: 4-67p
GL Joint Favorable: 4-67p
File No. 606: 4-67p