California launches Robot-free Boss Act: Ensure humans oversee AI workplace decisions

California Senator Jerry McNerney announced the launch of the No Robo Bosses Act on Thursday. The bill aims to ensure human supervision of AI decisions in the workplace, becoming the first such proposal in the country.

Under the bill, the upcoming Senate Bill 7 will prohibit California employers from relying solely on artificial intelligence or automated decision-making systems (ADS) in terms of recruitment, promotion, punishment or dismissal. In addition, the bill will prohibit AI systems that use personal data to predict future behavior of employees.

McNani said: "Companies are increasingly using artificial intelligence to improve work efficiency and productivity, but there are currently no safeguards to prevent machines from unfairly or illegally affecting employees' livelihoods and working conditions." He emphasized that the application of artificial intelligence in the workplace should have clear rules and regulations to protect employees' rights and interests.

The bill is sponsored by the California Federation of Labor Unions (AFL-CIO), which represents more than 1,300 unions and has 2.3 million union members. “No employee should report to a robot boss when facing risks at work, or when he needs to go to the bathroom or leave work due to an emergency,” said Lorena Gonzalez, president of the California Labor Federation.

In addition, the bill was supported by South Los Angeles Congressmen Sade Elhawary and Isaac Bryan. Together, they believe that ensuring a good balance between humans and technology in the workplace is extremely important.

With the rapid development of technology, how to rationally apply artificial intelligence in the workplace has become an important social issue. The proposal of this bill will provide a new idea and direction for future workplace supervision and employee rights protection.