Bill > HCR192

This concurrent resolution requests the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission (HCRC), the state agency responsible for enforcing anti-discrimination laws, to investigate how existing state laws that prohibit discrimination in areas like employment, housing, and public services apply to decisions made by algorithmic and automated systems. These systems, which can include artificial intelligence (AI) tools, are increasingly used for tasks such as screening job applicants, selecting tenants, and determining eligibility for public benefits. The resolution acknowledges that these systems, if built with biased data or without proper oversight, can unintentionally perpetuate or even worsen discrimination, creating new challenges for investigation and enforcement. Therefore, the HCRC is asked to assess if current laws are sufficient, identify any legal hurdles, consider if new rules or guidance are needed, explore how people can report algorithmic discrimination, and recommend any legislative changes necessary to ensure civil rights protections remain effective in the face of advancing technology. The commission is expected to report its findings and recommendations to the Legislature by early 2027.