Bipartisan AI safety, privacy bills await action in Illinois House

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — The Illinois House could pass a package of bills to regulate artificial intelligence before the spring session ends Sunday. These plans could create guardrails in a variety of areas, including privacy, education and prices.

Artificial intelligence has become one of the most powerful tools for companies around the world. While some people hate the idea of AI, lawmakers know the technology is here to stay and Illinois must regulate it.

Large AI developers like ChatGPT and Claude could soon be required to give the state an independent annual report documenting the mechanisms they use to address catastrophic risks. Lawmakers are demanding AI companies report critical safety issues within 72 hours of learning about them or 24 hours if the incident poses imminent risk of death or physical harm.

"We're talking about biological threats," said Sen. Mary Edly-Allen (D-Grayslake). "We're talking about mass information campaigns, fraud, election interference and systems that operate beyond meaningful human oversight."

Illinois could also force AI developers to create methods for detecting user expression of suicide or self harm and refer people to crisis services. This comes as a growing number of teenagers and young adults are turning to AI chatbots during mental health crises.

"This bill helps us be proactive instead of reactive, and it sends a clear message that protecting kids in today's digital age still matters," said Sen. Erica Harriss (R-Glen Carbon).

A separate plan could require any person or company using an AI chat system during trade or commerce to disclose consumers are talking with a bot instead of a human.

Another bill would allow people to opt out of having their personal data used for ads or sold to third parties. The measure could also protect people from AI profiling for loan approvals, job screenings and insurance rates among other areas.

"Senate Bill 340 is a stronger, more protective law that gives consumers actual control, restrictions on harmful practices and safeguards against an opaque AI-driven decision-making model," said Sen. Michael Hastings (D-Frankfort).

Senators also believe students and their families should not have to worry if their identity or data is being taken advantage of or used to discriminate against them. One bill would only allow school districts to use facial recognition technology for instructional purposes.

"While biometric information certainly has its uses, keeping our kids safe from it, their data and their storage, I think is very important," said Sen. Li Arellano (R-Dixon).

Another plan could ban teachers from using AI to grade student work. A separate bill could ban landlords from using AI platforms to set rent prices. The House will also have the opportunity to prohibit bots from buying tickets for concerts, sports and other major events.

"Fans should have a fair shot at buying tickets at the advertised price without competing against bots or being misled by deceptive sellers," said Sen. Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford). "This legislation increases transparency and helps protect consumers from unfair practices in the ticket marketplace."