Legislators in Minnesota are considering a change to their state constitution that would carve out free speech protections for artificial intelligence. A new blog from Kevin Frazier, an adjunct research fellow at the Cato Institute, discusses how this proposal would conflict with the foundational right of free speech, writing in part:

“This proposal indicates a continued transformation of the law as something that protects the ‘freedom to’ versus providing ‘freedom from.’ The former framing prioritizes individual will and expression. The latter invites the state to restrict and confine how we work, communicate, and self-govern. This phenomenon—known as ‘juridification’ to scholars—is particularly concerning. The more the law shapes the contours of daily life, the less practice Americans will have exercising those core democratic traits.

Regardless of the success or failure of the Minnesota proposal, it is never too early to express alarm over individuals inviting the government to control more aspects of our daily lives. We should not let the disruption seen from innovation be an excuse to do so.”

To speak with Frazier further on Minnesota’s proposed AI law, contact Christopher Tarvardian.