Connecticut AI, Online Safety Bill Draws Broad Industry Concern
HARTFORD, Conn. — A sweeping artificial intelligence and online safety bill advancing in the Connecticut legislature would impose new compliance requirements across all industries, according to the Connecticut Business & Industry Association.
The legislation, which combines AI governance provisions with online safety mandates, represents one of the most expansive state-level efforts to regulate artificial intelligence technology, according to CBIA, the state’s largest business advocacy organization. The group warned that the bill’s broad scope means virtually no industry sector would be exempt from its reach.
Connecticut lawmakers have continued to push AI regulation despite a 2024 veto by then-Gov. Ned Lamont, who cited concerns the legislation could stifle innovation, as federal AI legislation remains stalled in Congress.
CBIA noted that the legislation extends beyond technology companies to encompass any business that deploys or develops AI systems.
The measure comes as states across the country have accelerated their own AI regulatory efforts in the absence of comprehensive federal legislation. Colorado enacted the first broad AI governance law in 2024, and more than 40 states introduced AI-related bills in their most recent legislative sessions, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Business groups nationally have raised concerns about a growing patchwork of state AI regulations that could impose conflicting compliance burdens on companies operating across multiple jurisdictions. CBIA’s analysis indicates Connecticut’s proposal would add to that regulatory landscape.
The legislation’s combination of AI regulation with online safety provisions reflects a pattern among state lawmakers to bundle technology governance measures into omnibus bills.
