This bill aims to establish robust protections for whistleblowers reporting concerns related to artificial intelligence. It specifically prohibits employers from retaliating against current or former employees and independent contractors who disclose information about AI security vulnerabilities or AI violations . The legislation broadly defines artificial intelligence to encompass various systems and techniques, including those performing tasks without significant human oversight or learning from experience. An AI security vulnerability is defined as any security lapse that could allow emerging AI technology to be acquired by theft. An AI violation includes any breach of federal law related to AI development, deployment, or use, or a failure to address substantial dangers posed by AI to public safety, public health, or national security. Protected disclosures include providing information to regulatory officials, law enforcement, Members of Congress, or internal company supervisors or authorities. The bill outlines clear enforcement mechanisms for individuals experiencing retaliation. A covered individual may file a complaint with the Secretary of Labor, and if a final decision is not issued within 180 days, they can pursue an action in an appropriate U.S. District Court. Successful complainants are entitled to comprehensive relief, including reinstatement to their former position with full seniority, two times the amount of back pay with interest, and compensatory damages covering litigation costs and attorney's fees. Furthermore, these rights and remedies cannot be waived or altered by any contract, agreement, or condition of employment, including mandatory arbitration clauses.
This bill aims to establish robust protections for whistleblowers reporting concerns related to artificial intelligence. It specifically prohibits employers from retaliating against current or former employees and independent contractors who disclose information about AI security vulnerabilities or AI violations . The legislation broadly defines artificial intelligence to encompass various systems and techniques, including those performing tasks without significant human oversight or learning from experience. An AI security vulnerability is defined as any security lapse that could allow emerging AI technology to be acquired by theft. An AI violation includes any breach of federal law related to AI development, deployment, or use, or a failure to address substantial dangers posed by AI to public safety, public health, or national security. Protected disclosures include providing information to regulatory officials, law enforcement, Members of Congress, or internal company supervisors or authorities. The bill outlines clear enforcement mechanisms for individuals experiencing retaliation. A covered individual may file a complaint with the Secretary of Labor, and if a final decision is not issued within 180 days, they can pursue an action in an appropriate U.S. District Court. Successful complainants are entitled to comprehensive relief, including reinstatement to their former position with full seniority, two times the amount of back pay with interest, and compensatory damages covering litigation costs and attorney's fees. Furthermore, these rights and remedies cannot be waived or altered by any contract, agreement, or condition of employment, including mandatory arbitration clauses.