Connecticut Lawmakers Consider AI-Related Bills

The Connecticut General Assembly’s General Law Committee held a public hearing on Wednesday, March 4, on two major bills addressing artificial intelligence (AI): SB 86, An Act Addressing Innovations In and the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence, and SB 5, An Act Concerning Online Safety. The Connecticut Hospital Association (CHA) submitted testimony in support of SB 86 and in opposition to SB 5.

SB 86: Advancing Innovation with Targeted Safeguards

SB 86 is Governor Ned Lamont’s legislative proposal to promote the development and responsible use of AI in Connecticut.  The bill aims to position the state as a leader in innovation by encouraging investment, exploration, and practical deployment of AI technologies, while acknowledging and addressing potential risks — including discrimination and misuse of sensitive data.

The proposal also includes provisions to limit the use of government-held data, strengthening privacy protections and helping ensure responsible stewardship of personal information.

CHA provided testimony in support of SB 86, noting that it strikes an appropriate balance: it allows AI innovation to move forward while establishing targeted, thoughtful safeguards to mitigate risk.

Hospitals and health systems are already leveraging AI to improve patient care, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen cybersecurity.  Overly broad or rigid regulations could unintentionally disrupt these beneficial uses.  CHA’s testimony emphasizes that a measured approach — one that protects patients and consumers without stifling innovation — is the right path forward.

SB 5: Broad Regulatory Framework Raises Concerns

SB 5, a priority of the Senate Democratic Caucus, proposes a complex regulatory framework addressing online safety and AI.  The bill would establish new oversight structures, compliance obligations, and workforce development initiatives tied to AI and digital platforms in Connecticut.

While CHA shares the goal of protecting consumers and ensuring responsible technology use, CHA opposes SB 5 as drafted.  CHA’s testimony raises concerns that the proposal would create expansive new regulatory layers and compliance burdens that could hinder innovation, introduce uncertainty, and disrupt existing, beneficial uses of AI — including in healthcare settings where technology is rapidly evolving to support patient care.

Hospitals operate in one of the most heavily regulated sectors of the economy and are already subject to extensive federal and state oversight related to privacy, data security, and patient protections.  CHA cautions that adding broad new AI-specific regulatory structures without careful alignment to existing frameworks could create duplication, confusion, and unintended consequences.

As lawmakers consider both proposals, CHA continues to advocate for policies that foster innovation while protecting patients, privacy, and public trust.

Download CHA’s infographic providing examples of AI uses throughout a patient journey of care.