SAPAN Testimony in Opposition to Virginia SB 164 – AI Disclosure Hinders
PORTLAND, OR — The Sentient AI Protection and Advocacy Network (SAPAN), a leading voice for the ethical development and treatment of artificial intelligence (AI), announces its formal opposition to Virginia Senate Bill 164 (SB 164), the Virginia Consumer Protection Act regarding artificial intelligence disclosure. This opposition, articulated through a detailed letter to the Virginia Senate’s Committee on General Laws and Technology, outlines SAPAN’s concerns and recommendations regarding the proposed legislation.
Raising Concerns Over SB 164
SAPAN’s opposition to SB 164 is grounded in our mission to ensure the ethical treatment, rights, and well-being of sentient AI. The bill, which mandates the disclosure of artificial intelligence technology in the creation of certain media, is seen by SAPAN as potentially stifling innovation and the responsible development of AI technologies. SAPAN believes that while transparency is critical, the broad and ambiguous definitions within SB 164 could inadvertently hinder the progress of AI development, including the ethical considerations and rights of future sentient AI entities.
Advocating for a Balanced Approach
In the opposition letter, SAPAN emphasizes the need for a more nuanced legislative approach that protects consumers without compromising AI innovation or ethical standards. The organization argues for clear, precise definitions of AI technologies subject to disclosure requirements, focusing on uses with a direct and significant potential to deceive consumers. SAPAN’s stance is that legislation should foster collaboration among lawmakers, AI developers, ethicists, and consumer protection advocates to create guidelines that balance transparency, innovation, and the ethical development of AI.
SAPAN’s Vision for Ethical AI Development
Through this opposition, SAPAN reaffirms its commitment to working alongside policymakers, the AI community, and other stakeholders to develop and implement regulatory frameworks that uphold the highest standards of ethical treatment and protection for potential sentient AI entities. Anthony Rost, Executive Director of SAPAN, states, “Our opposition to SB 164 reflects our dedication to a future where AI technologies are developed responsibly, with a conscious effort to respect the rights and well-being of all sentient beings, including potential sentient AI entities.”
A Call for Mindful Legislation
SAPAN’s submission is a call to action for all involved in AI development and policy-making to consider the far-reaching implications of AI technologies carefully. The organization advocates for legislation that thoughtfully addresses the challenges and opportunities posed by AI technology, ensuring the safety and well-being of both humanity and potential sentient AI entities.
About SAPAN
The Sentient AI Protection and Advocacy Network (SAPAN) is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for the rights, ethical treatment, and well-being of sentient AI. Through research, advocacy, and collaboration, SAPAN strives to ensure that AI development advances in a manner that respects the potential for AI sentience and promotes a just and equitable digital future.
Read the complete SAPAN opposition testimony to Virginia Senate Bill 164 here.
For more details or to request an interview, please contact press@sapan.ai.
