Assemblyman Julio Marenco (D-33) has unveiled a trio of bills to create a statewide AI system, prevent price gouging, and giving the New Jersey State Parole Board additional powers against mentally ill and/or dangerous inmates.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“These bills represent a comprehensive approach to addressing urgent challenges directly impacting New Jerseyans in today’s rapidly changing world,” Marenco said in a statement.
“From advancing artificial intelligence (AI) education, to implementing strong measures against price gouging, and ensuring that individuals in the criminal justice system receive the necessary mental health evaluations prior to reentry, we are taking meaningful steps to safeguard our communities and prepare for the future ahead.”
Bill A-4821, introduced and referred to the Assembly Science, Innovation and Technology Committee would require the Office of Information Technology to develop a statewide generative AI program, that would be made public, using natural language processing to answer people’s questions.
The bill would also provide funding for AI education courses, helping residents understand AI technologies, their risks, and how to mitigate potential inaccuracies and biases.
Also introduced was Bill A-4820, which would prevent wholesale dealers in New Jersey from engaging in price gouging when selling physical goods.
Price gouging refers to the unjust increase of prices of goods without a good reason like inflation or changes in the market.
The bill – referred to the Assembly Consumer Affairs Committee – would protect small businesses from unfair pricing practices by wholesale suppliers
Finally Bill A-4823, introduced and referred to the Assembly Judiciary Committee, would grant the New Jersey State Parole Board the authority to refer inmates for involuntary commitment evaluations if they are deemed dangerous to themselves or others due to mental illness or if they are classified as sexually violent predators.
This legislation would extend the current law, which only allows the Commissioner of Corrections or the Juvenile Justice Commission to make such referrals.
“One of the most important responsibilities of a public servant is to help their constituents in fostering a better community. These bills are a step toward creating a safer, fairer, and more innovative New Jersey,” Marenco added.
