Employers Ask ‘What Is AI’ as Regulators Probe Hiring Biases

Employers are struggling with confusion over which technology counts as “artificial intelligence” under emerging legal frameworks, a problem that could complicate federal agencies’ and state lawmakers’ attempts to tackle AI-based discrimination in hiring and employment.

A first-of-its kind New York City law requiring employers using AI to independently audit their systems for bias has led more states to propose similar bills. Meanwhile, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Labor Department’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs have indicated an interest in learning more about the AI tools used by employers to hire and promote employees in order to spot ...