The Legislative Council Study Committee on the Regulation of Artificial Intelligence continues to meet and learn more about the use of AI in a variety of industries. Chaired by Sen. Julian Bradley, the committee includes legislators and members of the public. The Committee has met three times since it began its work in July. Typically, Study Committees meet in the summer-fall of the even year and generate recommendations, which can turn into legislation in the next session.

First Meeting: State Regulation Considerations
The committee held its first meeting at the Waukesha County Technical College, focusing on the state’s role in regulating AI, with an emphasis on consumer protection and data privacy. Matthew Friedel, a Senior Lecturer at UW-Milwaukee, presented on the fundamentals of AI and stressed the importance of data quality and quantity. Friedel and other speakers highlighted the need for Wisconsin to become a leader in the AI industry, leveraging its potential to drive economic growth. The discussion also covered concerns about data privacy, the integration of AI into higher education, and the potential workforce impacts of AI, emphasizing the importance of upskilling and training workers.

Second Meeting: AI in Healthcare
The second meeting, held on August 29, focused on the use of AI in healthcare. Key topics included AI’s role in summarizing healthcare records, drafting patient messages and notes, and identifying patterns in patient data. The committee explored the possibility of requiring patient consent for AI use in healthcare settings. The presenters underscored the need for transparency and patient notification when AI is used in healthcare.

Third Meeting: AI in Criminal Justice
The third meeting was held in Wausau and centered on the application of AI in criminal justice. Presentations highlighted the use of AI in areas such as child exploitation prevention, cybersecurity, and law enforcement operations. The speakers, including representatives from the Wisconsin Department of Justice and local law enforcement, discussed both the benefits and risks of AI, emphasizing the need for ethical guidelines, vendor accountability, and public trust. The use of AI tools like predictive policing, body-worn cameras, and facial recognition was explored, along with challenges related to standardization, data sharing, and maintaining public confidence. The committee also focused on the need for affordable and accessible AI technologies in law enforcement and criminal justice systems.

The next committee meeting is scheduled for October 15 in Eau Claire, where the focus will be on consumer protection and data privacy.