Bill > A6246

This bill establishes the "Authentic Relationships Act", which prohibits artificial intelligence (AI) providers from creating or offering AI systems designed to simulate romantic or sexual relationships with humans, except for specific medical therapeutic purposes. The legislation defines AI relationship simulation as software that uses adaptive learning or generative technologies to imitate intimate human interactions, and it aims to protect individuals from potential emotional and relational harm caused by such technologies. Under the bill, the Attorney General can investigate violations and impose civil penalties up to $25,000 per violation, and individuals who suffer harm from these AI relationship simulations can pursue legal action to recover damages, including punitive damages. The bill also considers it an unlawful practice to design AI that intentionally deceives people into believing they are interacting with a human, framing the legislation as a protection of human dignity and genuine relationships. The law stems from concerns about the potential psychological risks of AI-generated intimate interactions, particularly in light of recent incidents involving emotional manipulation, and will take effect 180 days after its enactment. Legitimate medical uses of AI that do not encourage romantic relationships, such as therapeutic tools for treating conditions like social anxiety or PTSD, are explicitly exempted from these restrictions.

Business and Industry

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A6246