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DZ

Bill

SB 212

Creating the Right to Compute Act and requiring shutdowns of AI controlled critical infrastructure

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Daniel Zolnikov

Montana law now requires AI systems managing critical infrastructure to maintain manual shutdown capabilities and operator transparency disclosures.

Chapter Number Assigned
#informationtechnology(seealso:communications)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 212

Legislative bill overview

SB 212, Montana's "Right to Compute Act," establishes requirements for AI systems controlling critical infrastructure to have manual shutdown capabilities and operational transparency measures. The bill mandates that AI-controlled infrastructure in sectors like power, water, and transportation maintain human override functions and requires operators to disclose AI involvement in critical systems.

Why is this important

As AI increasingly manages essential services that affect public safety and economic stability, this legislation addresses a genuine operational risk: if AI systems malfunction or behave unexpectedly, humans need reliable ways to regain control. The bill reflects growing concerns about automation dependency and creates a legal framework for human-in-the-loop safeguards in high-stakes environments.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Requiring manual overrides and transparency infrastructure may increase operational expenses for utilities and infrastructure operators, potentially raising consumer costs
  • Definition ambiguity: "AI-controlled" and "critical infrastructure" lack universally accepted definitions, creating uncertainty about which systems must comply and what constitutes adequate shutdown mechanisms
  • Competitive disadvantage: Montana operators may face higher compliance burdens than out-of-state competitors, potentially affecting infrastructure investment and business location decisions

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

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