Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H8052

Introduced
2/27/26  

Caption

Provides a civil cause of action for individuals injured by artificial intelligence.

Impact

If enacted, H8052 would amend existing laws to create a civil cause of action specifically for individuals injured by AI. Developers of AI systems would face liability for injuries attributable to their systems, barring certain defenses regarding mental states or user negligence. This change would likely compel developers to increase their diligence in testing, managing, and refining AI technologies, ensuring they operate safely and effectively. Furthermore, the bill outlines conditions under which a rebuttable presumption of mental state can be established, thus simplifying punitive processes against developers in cases of harm.

Summary

House Bill 8052, introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly, seeks to address the complex legal landscape surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) by establishing clear liability for injuries caused by AI systems. The bill introduces a new section to Chapter 9-1 of the General Laws, focusing on 'Causes of Action,' and holds developers accountable for injuries resulting from AI systems that exhibit conduct equivalent to negligence or intentional torts by humans. This legislative effort arises from the growing recognition of AI's pervasive influence across multiple sectors, necessitating a framework that balances accountability with innovation.

Contention

While proponents argue that H8052 is a necessary step to ensure consumer protection and foster responsible AI development, critics may view it as overly burdensome for innovation. Notable points of contention include the potential for chilling effects on technology advancement and the appropriateness of placing liability solely on developers. There may be concerns regarding the broad application of liability for developers, especially in cases where the AI system receives incremental modifications from various users or entities, complicating accountability and oversight.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5224

Provides a civil cause of action for individuals injured by artificial intelligence.

RI S0358

Provides a civil cause of action for individuals injured by artificial intelligence.

RI S0013

Promotes transparency and accountability in the use of artificial intelligence by health insurers to manage coverage and claims.

RI H5172

Would promote transparency and accountability in the use of artificial intelligence by health insurers to manage coverage and claims.

RI H5914

Limits the recovery for personal injuries actions against any town to $3,000 retroactive to all causes of action arising after January 1, 2025, and prohibits the use of subsequent remedial measures in roadway/highway defect cases.

RI H5926

Creates a cause of action for the intentional or negligent injury or death of a pet.

RI S0566

Provides for a cause of action against an individual or entity that prohibits the possession of firearms on real property, except residences, by an individual that is authorized and licensed to carry a firearm.

RI S1014

Amends calculations of interest in civil actions a rate determined by average accepted auction price for last auction of 52 week U.S. treasury bills.

RI H5179

Amends calculations of interest in civil actions a rate determined by average accepted auction price for last auction of 52 week U.S. treasury bills.

RI H5123

Requires DOA provide inventory of all state agencies using artificial intelligence (AI); establishes a 13 member permanent commission to monitor the use of AI in state government and makes recommendations for state government policy and other decisions.

Similar Bills

HI SB2212

Relating To Artificial Intelligence Literacy Education.

HI HB1887

Relating To Artificial Intelligence Literacy Education.

CA SB813

California AI Standards and Safety Commission: independent verification organizations.

HI SB2923

Relating To Artificial Intelligence.

NJ S2860

Establishes Artificial Intelligence Apprenticeship Program and artificial intelligence apprenticeship tax credit program.

NJ A4352

Requires school districts to provide instruction on artificial intelligence; requires Secretary of Higher Education to develop artificial intelligence model curricula.

NJ S1802

Requires artificial intelligence companies to conduct safety tests and report results to Office of Information Technology.

HI HB1676

Relating To Artificial Intelligence.