Bill > HB524

This bill establishes a comprehensive legal framework to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) models and applications in Ohio, focusing on preventing AI systems from encouraging self-harm or harming others. The legislation defines key terms such as "artificial intelligence model" and "deploy," and prohibits developers from creating or deploying AI models that encourage users to engage in self-harm or harm to other people. The bill empowers the Attorney General to investigate potential violations, with the authority to subpoena witnesses, gather evidence, and conduct inquiries. If violations are found, the Attorney General can bring civil actions against developers, with potential penalties up to $50,000 for each violation. The bill provides a process for investigation that includes opportunities for developers to cease and desist potentially harmful practices, and allows for voluntary compliance assurances. Civil penalties collected under this law will be deposited into the 9-8-8 fund, which supports suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline systems. The legislation includes protections for individuals who provide testimony during investigations and sets a six-year statute of limitations for bringing actions under this law. Overall, the bill aims to create safeguards against AI technologies that could potentially encourage dangerous behavior.