California Governor Gavin Newsom Signs Artificial Intelligence Bill
A new law has been approved in California prohibiting employers from relying entirely on artificial intelligence to fire or discipline employees.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed into law SB 947, which bans businesses from using solely artificial intelligence in worker discipline and termination processes.
Scope and Details of the Law
Known as the No Robo Bosses Act, SB 947 prevents employers from relying exclusively on automated decision-making systems in decisions to terminate or discipline employees.
Human Oversight Mandate Introduced
Under the law, employers that base their decisions on artificial intelligence output will be required to have a human reviewer verify these decisions with additional information and provide written notice to affected employees.
Legislative History and Adoption Process
The initial version of the bill had been vetoed due to advance notice requirements in October and concerns over scope, but it was reintroduced in February after the problematic clauses were removed.
Reactions from Various Circles to the Bill
While business groups such as the Chamber of Progress opposed the law citing a lack of clear definitions, unions and worker organizations supported the regulation.