HRPA’s AI Comments Designed to Influence Senate Legislation

In response to a white paper and request for information on artificial intelligence by Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA), HR Policy Association submitted comments based on member input to inform the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee on forthcoming Artificial Intelligence (AI) legislation. 

The comments highlighted HR Policy Association’s principles on the use of AI for employee data and encouraged the Committee to consider the principles as they develop policy recommendations. 

AI can assist employers in achieving several key priorities. AI can help companies create safer workplaces, more effectively measure productivity, and ensure compliance with legal requirements, while also respecting employee privacy and rights. These tools enhance efficiency, reduce errors, and contribute to better overall management and risk mitigation.

The Association recommended the following approaches as the Committee pursues policy development:

• Avoid adopting a one-size-fits-all approach. Companies are employing AI in diverse ways concerning workplace operations and hiring procedures. Therefore, policymakers should steer clear of implementing inflexible regulations when it comes to supervising and governing AI, especially its applications aimed at enhancing workforce productivity and diversity.
  
  
• Align new guidelines with existing government policies and employer practices. The use of technology in the employment context is already subject to extensive regulation. When possible, policymakers should align any new guidelines or standards with existing government policies and commonly adopted employer best practices.

Outlook: The popularity of generative AI is steadily rising, and with this growth comes the ongoing development of legislative and regulatory frameworks. Recently, HR Policy Association has collaborated with the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, the Commerce Department, and the Senate HELP Committee on AI policy frameworks. Notably, there is significant bipartisan interest in advancing AI-related legislation. The Association remains committed to keeping its members well-informed about any noteworthy developments in this evolving landscape.