Sen. Hwang Warns AI Bill Could Undermine CT’s Innovation Economy

State Sen. Tony Hwang (R-Fairfield) yesterday opposed a far-reaching measure (S.B. 5) that he says would impose overly burdensome regulations on artificial intelligence (AI) and negatively impact Connecticut’s business environment, particularly for small and emerging tech firms.

While S.B. 5 contains some positive elements like the creation of an AI Training Academy and safeguards for children and consumers, Sen. Hwang said that combining them into a single, wide-ranging bill makes it difficult to separate good policies from those that would be costly for businesses.

“We all share the goal of protecting young people and consumers from the potential harms of AI. There are strong pieces of this bill that focus on safety, education, and responsible use. Those efforts are important, and I commend my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for their work on this bill,” said Sen. Hwang.

“But I am concerned that this proposal goes too far, too fast. Other neighboring states are taking a more targeted approach, and if Connecticut overregulates, we risk driving away innovation, investment, and jobs at a time when affordability and competitiveness are major challenges,” he added.

Throughout his Senate floor debate, Sen. Hwang cited the bill’s likely chilling effect on business innovation through strict requirements on AI risk, employment use, and onerous reporting mandates. Referring to neighboring states’ approach to AI regulation like New York and Massachusetts, he articulated how the measure will either slow down AI adoption in the state or ultimately push companies to build or expand just beyond its borders.

As an active member of the Artificial Intelligence Caucus and a strong advocate for responsible technology innovation, Sen. Hwang acknowledged the importance of ethical AI development that protects children and consumers but emphasized that S.B. 5 is not the proper vehicle to do so through its excessive regulatory burdens.

A Call for Balanced AI Policy

Throughout his career, Sen. Hwang has articulated the importance of crafting thoughtful, balanced AI policy that supports innovation while safeguarding public interest, including his work in 2025 to improve S.B. 2, which stalled after gaining Senate approval.

“I’ve always advocated for an AI framework that protects children and consumers, but also keeps Connecticut open for innovation,” he said. “Let’s not allow well-meaning legislation to inadvertently crush the very progress we seek to manage.”