California lawmakers try — again — to put restrictions on use of ‘robo bosses’

California would prohibit employers from solely using programs powered by artificial intelligence to discipline or fire workers under a bill passed by the Legislature Monday. 

Senate Bill 947 now moves on to Gov. Gavin Newsom who has until the end of September to take action on it.

The measure also requires employers that rely on automated programs for firing and disciplinary decisions to provide workers with a written notice that the technology was used. A human must also review the automated decision. 

“Employers are increasingly using AI to boost productivity and achieve cost-savings, but there are no safeguards in place to prevent harm to workers,” said bill author, state Sen. Jerry McNerney, D-Pleasanton, in a statement. “SB 947 will ensure that California businesses do not rely entirely on robo bosses to fire or discipline workers.”

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