WeVote

Bill

Bill

LD 872

An Act To Ensure Determinations Made By The State Are Free From Unethical, Unsafe Or Illegal Interference By Artificial Intelligence

132nd Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Gary Friedmann

Maine bill to restrict AI use in state government decisions failed; would have prohibited unethical, unsafe, or illegal AI interference in official determinations.

Placed in Legislative Files (DEAD)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · LD 872

Legislative bill overview

LD 872 proposed restricting the use of artificial intelligence in state government decision-making processes to prevent unethical, unsafe, or illegal AI interference. The bill aimed to establish safeguards ensuring that determinations made by Maine state agencies remain free from problematic AI influence or automation.

Why this is important

As governments increasingly adopt AI tools for administrative decisions—from benefits eligibility to licensing determinations—establishing guardrails could protect citizens from algorithmic bias, errors, or misuse. However, the bill failed to advance, leaving Maine without specific statutory protections governing AI use in state decision-making.

Potential points of contention

  • Vagueness of scope: The bill's language around "unethical, unsafe or illegal interference" lacked precise definitions, making enforcement ambiguous and potentially subjective
  • Implementation burden: Determining when and how AI is "interfering" with state determinations could create administrative complexity without clear compliance standards
  • Economic concerns: Some stakeholders may have viewed AI restrictions as hindering efficiency gains and cost savings government agencies seek through automation
  • Outdated quickly: AI technology evolves rapidly; statutory restrictions risk becoming obsolete before implementation

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

Sign in to ask a question.