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The Nebraska Legislature is considering a pair of AI-related bills in 2024. The Government, Military, and Veterans Affairs Committee will accept public testimony on both initiatives on Wednesday, Feb. 28, to determine if either bill will be advanced for the full body to debate. Click on their titles below to earn more about the bills by clicking on their titles, and consider offering lawmakers your thoughts.

LB1203 – Regulate AI in elections

›› Legislative Bill 1203 was introduced on Jan. 16, 2024, by State Sen. John Cavanaugh of Omaha. The legislation would regulate the use of artificial intelligence tools and products in political advertising. It also would forbid AI-generated political advertising that willingly and knowingly employs AI-generated fake imagery or statements 90 or fewer days before an election.

›› Read the content of this bill at this link.

What’s next: The Government Committee of the Nebraska Legislature will hear public testimony on LB1203 at 1:30 pm CST on Feb. 8 in Room 1507 of the Nebraska State Capitol. Members of the public are welcome to attend and offer their thoughts to the Committee.

Can’t testify in person? You can submit an online comment for the public record. Be sure to do so by 8 am CST on Feb. 28.

LB1390 – Election worker protection

›› Legislative Bill 1390 was introduced on Jan. 16, 2024, by State Sen. Eliot Bostar of Lincoln. The legislation would provide new protections for Nebraska election officials and workers by enhancing penalties for those who may threaten, harass, or manipulate those tasked with conducting our state’s elections. It also would create new penalties for using AI to create fake videos or audio depicting an election official with the intent of sharing misinformation about an election.

›› Read the content of this bill at this link.

Can’t testify in person? You can submit an online comment for the public record. Be sure to do so by 8 am CST on Feb. 28.

LB1371 – Media Literacy Act

›› Legislative Bill 1371 was introduced on Jan. 17, 2024, by State Sen. Tony Vargas of Omaha. The legislation would add media literacy requirements for public school students starting in 2025; by 2027, at least one three-credit high-school media literacy course would be required before graduation.

›› Read the content of this bill at this link.

What’s next: The Education Committee of the Nebraska Legislature heard public testimony on LB1371 on Feb. 20. Contact senators on the Committee to share your thoughts on LB1371.

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Civic Nebraska is actively monitoring advancements and effects of artificial intelligence technology. We also are promoting policies and media literacy efforts to mitigate the harm – and advance the benefits of – AI tools. You can support these efforts with a one-time or recurring donation.