On May 20, 2024, a proposal for a law on artificial intelligence (“AI”) was laid before the Italian Senate.
The proposed law sets out (1) general principles for the development and use of AI systems and models; (2) sectorial provisions, particularly in the healthcare sector and for scientific research for healthcare; (3) rules on the national strategy on AI and governance, including designating the national competent authorities in accordance with the EU AI Act; and (4) amendments to copyright law.
We provide below an overview of the proposal’s key provisions.
Objectives and General Principles
The proposed law aims to promote a “fair, transparent and responsible” use of AI, following a human-centered approach, and to monitor potential economic and social risks, as well as risks to fundamental rights. The law will sit alongside and complement the EU AI Act (for more information on the EU AI Act, see our blogpost here). (Article 1)
The proposed law sets out general principles, based on the principles developed by the Commission’s High-level expert group on artificial intelligence, pursuing three broad objectives:
- Fair algorithmic processing. Research, testing, development, implementation and application of AI systems must respect individuals’ fundamental rights and freedoms, and the principles of transparency, proportionality, security, protection of personal data and confidentiality, accuracy, non-discrimination, gender equality and inclusion.
- Protection of data. The development of AI systems and models must be based on data and processes that are proportionate to the sectors in which they’re intended to be used, and ensure that data is accurate, reliable, secure, qualitative, appropriate and transparent. Cybersecurity throughout the systems’ lifecycle must be ensured and specific security measures adopted.
- Digital sustainability. The development and implementation of AI systems and models must ensure human autonomy and decision-making, prevention of harm, transparency and explainability. (Article 3)
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