Artificial Intelligence law at Puerto Rico (US)
As of May 2025, Puerto Rico is actively developing a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework for artificial intelligence (AI) to ensure ethical deployment, transparency, and accountability, particularly within government operations.
🇵🇷 Key Legislative Initiatives
1. Government of Puerto Rico Artificial Intelligence Act (Senate Bill 68)
Introduced in January 2025, this bill aims to:
Establish the position of Artificial Intelligence Officer within the Puerto Rico Innovation and Technology Service (PRITS) to oversee AI initiatives across government agencies.
Create an AI Advisory Council to guide best practices and foster international collaboration in AI research and regulation.
Mandate biennial evaluations of AI systems to assess compliance with ethical standards and transparency requirements.
Develop an AI-based application for real-time monitoring of public auctions to detect potential irregularities. (mzls.com)
2. Public Policy on AI Use in Government (House Bill 2027)
Filed on February 18, 2024, this bill seeks to:
Outline the public policy applicable to government agencies when using AI algorithms.
Require agencies to obtain authorization from PRITS before implementing AI systems.
Mandate detailed reporting on AI usage, including the platform implemented and the agency's needs.
Impose administrative fines of up to $10,000 for non-compliance, with funds directed to PRITS for technology acquisition. (Lex Mundi, Metro Puerto Rico)
3. Cybersecurity Act of Puerto Rico (Act 40-2024)
Enacted on January 18, 2024, this law establishes:
The position of Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) under PRITS to lead cybersecurity efforts.
Mandatory implementation of a "zero trust architecture" approach for data and IT systems.
Prohibition on ransom payments by government entities and contractors in response to ransomware attacks. (mzls.com)
🗳️ AI in Electoral Processes
Legislators are also considering measures to regulate AI's role in elections, including:
Amending the Penal Code to classify crimes committed using AI as aggravating circumstances.
Modifying the Electoral Code to address AI's impact on political campaigns.
Establishing protocols for handling cyber-attacks involving AI during campaign periods. (NCSL)
🧠 Ethical Considerations and Public Engagement
Discussions have highlighted the importance of:
Ensuring AI systems are used responsibly to avoid misinformation, manipulation, and privacy violations.
Implementing transparency measures, such as disclaimers for AI-generated content in political advertisements.
Engaging with experts and stakeholders to develop a robust regulatory framework.
🔍 Summary
Puerto Rico is at the forefront of AI regulation in the U.S., with legislative efforts focusing on:
Establishing governance structures for AI oversight.
Implementing ethical standards and transparency measures.
Addressing AI's impact on various sectors, including government operations and electoral processes.
These initiatives aim to position Puerto Rico as a leader in ethical AI development and regulation.
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