Dec. 13—Over the past two years, the New Mexico Legislature has considered only about a dozen bills related to or involving artificial intelligence, and even fewer have passed. Given the rapid advances in AI over the past year, New Mexicans can expect further action in this area in Congress in 2025.
And if the Interim Science, Technology and Telecommunications Commission’s interim agenda is any indication, states will be debating a range of AI topics.
Approximately half of the presentations heard by the Committee in 2024 were related to AI or advanced technologies. Topics include AI transparency, ethics, literacy, power demand, and more.
The committee also heard a number of times about how AI can be used in healthcare to support both doctors and patients. Examples for patients include chatbot-based treatment and health apps, while examples for physicians include enhanced diagnostic and decision support, training for rural healthcare providers, and automation of administrative tasks. Included.
Only one AI bill was passed in the 2024 legislative session, and it was limited to budget deliberations and other topics the governor deemed relevant. This is enforced by legislation requiring disclosure about the use of AI in political advertising.
Only one non-funding bill with AI content was passed in 2023. Updated advanced technology regulations in commercial transactions.
In recent years, several funding initiatives have also pushed states to move forward, including Congress sending money to school districts to bring AI into education and the State Investment Council sending commitments to AI-focused investment firms. It’s passing.
Lawmakers can begin introducing bills on January 2nd, and the legislative session begins on January 21st. Unlike the 30-day session held in even-numbered years, the 60-day session is held without legislative topic restrictions.
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