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Bill

S 49

An Act relative to cybersecurity and artificial intelligence

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jamie Eldridge and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill S 49 establishes cybersecurity and AI governance requirements; currently under fiscal review in Ways and Means Committee after favorable committee report.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · S 49

Legislative bill overview

S 49 is Massachusetts legislation addressing cybersecurity and artificial intelligence governance. The bill has advanced through committee review with a favorable report and is currently under fiscal evaluation by the Ways and Means Committee. Specific provisions are not detailed in the available action history, but the bill's dual focus suggests requirements for AI oversight and cybersecurity standards.

Why is this important

As AI adoption accelerates in both public and private sectors, states are establishing regulatory frameworks ahead of federal action. Massachusetts, as a technology hub, setting cybersecurity and AI standards could influence business practices regionally and potentially serve as a model for other states. The fiscal committee review indicates the bill may carry implementation costs for enforcement or compliance infrastructure.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory scope and burden: Unclear whether requirements apply narrowly to state agencies or broadly to private companies, which affects compliance costs and economic impact
  • AI definition and liability: How the bill defines "artificial intelligence" and allocates responsibility for AI-generated harms between developers, deployers, and users remains a typical legislative friction point
  • Cybersecurity standards specificity: Whether mandates prescribe specific technical standards or allow flexibility, balancing security with innovation and implementation feasibility

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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