Substitute Senate Bill No. 86 aims to improve data management and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) within Connecticut's executive branch agencies. It establishes the position of Chief Data Officer within the Office of Policy and Management, who will be responsible for creating a state data plan that sets standards for data management, sharing, and compliance with legal and privacy regulations. Each agency will appoint an agency data officer to facilitate data access and adherence to the state data plan. Notably, the bill requires the Chief Data Officer to review high-value data by January 1, 2028, to identify data suitable for AI applications that can support economic development. The existing Section 4-67p is repealed and replaced with this updated framework, which includes new subsections and removes outdated references.

Additionally, the bill introduces regulations for operators of companion chatbots, requiring them to disclose their non-human nature and implement safeguards against harmful content, especially for minors. Operators must report annually to the Attorney General on their compliance, and violations will be treated as unfair trade practices, enforceable solely by the Attorney General. The bill also mandates the development of an AI regulatory sandbox program by the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, allowing for the testing of innovative AI products under reduced regulatory requirements. Overall, sSB 86 seeks to foster innovation in AI while ensuring user safety and ethical considerations are prioritized.

Statutes affected:
Governor's Bill: 4-67p
GL Joint Favorable Substitute: 4-67p
File No. 339: 4-67p