SPRINGFIELD – Following her work to establish first-in-the-nation artificial intelligence safety standards, State Senator Mary Edly-Allen has been appointed to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Task Force on Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Privacy, where she will collaborate with lawmakers from across the country to address emerging technology challenges and strengthen public protections.
“Artificial intelligence holds extraordinary promise, from curing disease to transforming scientific research, but we have a responsibility to confront the risks associated with these rapidly advancing systems,” said Edly-Allen (D-Grayslake). “Illinois has an opportunity to lead the nation by setting clear expectations for transparency, accountability and public safety, and I look forward to bringing that perspective to conversations with lawmakers across the country.”
The NCSL Task Force on Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Privacy brings together state lawmakers to examine emerging technology issues, share best practices and develop policy recommendations addressing artificial intelligence, cybersecurity threats and data privacy. The task force works to equip states with the resources and guidance needed to navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape while strengthening the security and resilience of state systems.
Edly-Allen’s appointment follows the passage of her landmark Senate Bill 315, a first-of-its-kind law establishing transparency and safety requirements for the nation’s largest frontier AI developers. The bipartisan legislation requires qualifying developers to assess catastrophic risks associated with advanced AI systems, report critical safety incidents, undergo annual independent third-party audits and establish whistleblower protections for employees who raise safety concerns.
In addition to artificial intelligence oversight, the task force examines cybersecurity vulnerabilities, threats to personal data, deepfakes, disinformation and the protection of critical infrastructure. Through collaboration with legislative leaders, industry experts and public and private stakeholders, members will work to identify effective policies and develop guidance that other states can implement.
“This is not about stopping innovation, but balancing the great promise of AI with its potential harms,” said Edly-Allen. “Power has to be matched with wisdom, transparency and responsibility. By working together across state lines, we can put responsible safeguards in place before a preventable catastrophe occurs and ensure public safety remains at the forefront of technological advancement.”
To learn more about the NCSL task force visit their website.
