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Nelson introduces bill to ensure accuracy in use of AI in state government and public schools

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    January 31, 2025 | 9:15 AM

HARRISBURG, Jan. 31 – State Rep. Napoleon Nelson, joined by state Reps. Paul Friel, Steven Malagari, Chris Pielli and Robert E. Merski, announced this week forthcoming legislation aimed at curbing the use of artificial intelligence tools in schools and by state government agencies.

"As technology continues to evolve, we must ensure that it is used responsibly -- especially when it directly impacts the people we serve," said Nelson, who serves on both the House Education Committee and the House Communications & Technology Committee. "Pennsylvania taxpayers and students have the right to expect factual and reliable information when they interact with government officials or educators. AI tools are already incredibly powerful and often deliver significant workplace efficiencies, but they are prone to, frankly, making stuff up. If a student is in a classroom to learn or a resident is reaching out to their government seeking assistance, the worst thing we could do is put someone in front of them that speaks with authority and but is not speaking in truth."

The legislation, which has yet to be formally introduced, would require that any AI tool or agent used in direct communication with Pennsylvania residents or students -- whether in state government offices or public schools -- meets a minimum standard of factual accuracy. It would also introduce an audit process to regularly assess AI-generated content and ensure any false or misleading statements are identified and corrected.

The bill comes in response to growing concerns over the deployment of Artificial Intelligence throughout the workplace and the need to address the frequency of AI misstatements, often referred to as “hallucinations”. It also happens to coincide with the recent AI-led cyber charter school applications in PA. Those cyber charter system proposals have since been denied by the PA Department of Education.

“This legislation’s introduction will mark an important step in ensuring that Pennsylvania remains at the forefront of responsible technology use, protecting the integrity of public services while embracing the benefits of innovation,” Nelson said.

Nelson represents the 154th Legislative District comprised of Cheltenham, Jenkintown and Springfield in Montgomery County.

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CONTACT: Ryan Bevitz
House Democratic Communications Office
Phone: 717-787-7895
Email: rbevitz@pahouse.net