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The governor brought along state Attorney General Dave Sunday to the roundtable discussion to learn how to keep bad actors accountable and Pennsylvanians, especially students, safe when using artificial intelligence.
Governor Josh Shapiro and Attorney General Dave Sunday held a roundtable discussion at the West Chester Community Center to tackle the challenges of artificial intelligence. They announced the launch of an AI literacy toolkit, which has already been explored by 2,000 residents, and the formation of an AI Enforcement Task Force to ensure accountability for malicious AI use and protect Pennsylvanians, particularly students.
Governor Shapiro, a father of four, highlighted the dangers of unregulated AI, noting that students often unknowingly interact with advanced bots rather than real people. He emphasized the state's significant investment of $300 million in mental health services across over 800 schools and stressed the need for a comprehensive approach combining legislative, regulatory, educational, and prosecutorial actions to safeguard students.
Students shared their experiences, discussing feelings of loneliness and the impact of fake online images, advocating for consequences for those who misuse AI to create such content. Parents, including Adam Dorfman, acknowledged the generational gap in understanding technology and stressed the importance of parental education. The discussion also touched upon a proposed bill to restrict phone use in schools, with students offering mixed views on its benefits for focus versus safety concerns.
State Representative Chris Pielli described AI as a potential 'cataclysmic change' and is working with Rep. McNeil on legislation (HB2215). This bill aims to require age verification for AI users, prohibit minors from accessing AI companions, and prevent AI chatbots from promoting sexually explicit conduct or encouraging self-harm. He emphasized the urgent need for legislation to catch up with rapid technological advancements.
Dr. Roger Harrison from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia brought up the issue of 'bed rot,' where students suffer from insufficient sleep due to late-night phone use, leading to significant mental health problems often unnoticed by parents. Parent Audrey Greenberg recounted her daughter's negative experience as an AI victim, revealing a lack of clear response protocols from police and schools and highlighting the absence of a centralized reporting system, underscoring the need for empathy and support for victims.
The governor actively sought feedback on effective ways to educate the public about AI challenges, including through school assemblies or 'Back to School Night' events. A student suggested that direct conversations with familiar figures like parents and teachers would be most impactful for learning. The article concludes by directing readers to pa.gov/aisafety for a comprehensive AI toolkit and additional information.