As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to play an increasingly vital role in various sectors, lawmakers across the United States are grappling with the challenges of regulating the technology. In Pennsylvania, the state Senate is stepping up efforts to address the ethical, legal and economic impacts of AI.
As chair of the state Senate Communications and Technology Committee, my aim is to ensure that AI technologies are used responsibly, without stifling innovation or growth.
THE PUSH FOR AI REGULATION
AI is no longer a distant or hypothetical future technology. It is already reshaping industries such as health care, finance, manufacturing and even transportation. However, as these applications proliferate, they bring with them a host of ethical, privacy and security concerns. The challenge for lawmakers is to strike a balance between encouraging technological development and protecting the public from potential harm.
In recent years, there has been increasing recognition among state legislators that AI regulation needs to be more than a simple matter of applying existing laws to new technologies.
The Pennsylvania Senate’s approach to AI legislation reflects broader concerns about privacy and safety, particularly for minors, all while trying to foster an environment conducive to technological advancement.
This summer, my legislation, Senate Bill 649, was signed into law as Act 35 of 2025. The new law classifies deepfakes and other forms of digital impersonation as digital forgeries, punishable by law.
Sadly, we’ve seen criminals impersonating loved ones to swindle the elderly; fabricated political videos and calls intending to fraudulently mislead and misinform voters; and, malicious digital content targeting celebrities and private citizens alike. This measure gives law enforcement the tools they need to fight this digital deception yet does so in a responsible manner, protecting First Amendment rights and preserving valid expressions of parody, satire and other forms of free speech.
Another measure, Senate Bill 806, amends the Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law to address the use of AI in advertising and selling consumer goods within Pennsylvania. The bill requires a clear and conspicuous disclaimer whenever AI-generated images, audio, video or text are used to market or sell consumer goods. By mandating these disclosures, the legislation aims to ensure transparency and protect consumers from being misled by highly sophisticated or realistic AI-generated media.
While AI regulation is crucial for protecting citizens and ensuring fairness, Pennsylvania’s lawmakers also understand the importance of maintaining a competitive edge in the tech industry. The state has long been home to a thriving tech sector, particularly in cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which have seen significant growth in AI research and development. To foster continued innovation, the state Senate has taken steps to create a regulatory environment that is conducive to the growth of AI and other emerging technologies.
LOOKING AHEAD: THE FUTURE OF AI LEGISLATION IN PENNSYLVANIA
As AI continues to evolve, so too will the legal and regulatory landscape. The Pennsylvania Senate is poised to continue its work on AI legislation in the coming years. It is clear that the state is committed to balancing innovation with regulation, aiming to ensure that AI technologies benefit society as a whole while minimizing the risks associated with their use.
While the path forward may not be easy, Pennsylvania’s proactive approach to AI legislation signals a recognition that responsible AI development is key to the future of both the state’s economy and its residents’ well-being. As the technology continues to advance, the state’s regulatory framework will need to evolve, but with careful planning and collaboration between lawmakers, industry and the public.
Pennsylvania Senator Tracy Pennycuick, a Republican, represents the 24th District, which includes parts of Berks and Montgomery Counties. For more information, visit senatorpennycuick.com.
