Far from Artificial Intelligence replacing workers, the country needs greater training for the increasing number of workers who will be using the growing technology, asserts Colorado’s senior U.S. Senator.
In hearings conducted by the Senate Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Committee, Senator John Hickenlooper remarked that even though movie plots have shown AI replacing humans entirely, “the reality is that in many cases AI will work hand in hand with American workers.”
To that end, Hickenlooper suggested that private companies should advance increased AI literacy training for workers who will be using the technology.
“This technology has the potential to positively alter the way that literally all of us work,” the Senator continued.
But he cautioned: “We’ve got to find smart workforce development opportunities around AI that are inclusive, that lift up the skills of all of our workers, and to make sure that everyone thrives, that everyone has the opportunity to create their own better future and their own career.”
Hickenlooper additionally emphasized that such training is particularly important for workers in small businesses and rural communities.
In separate remarks, Brad Newman, co-chair of the American Bar Association’s AI Subcommittee, said the “AI employment context is one area where the federal government should act,” adding that currently “existing laws do not adequately provide for the potential downside impact of AI.”
Legislation, Newman added, focusing on AI issues should encourage the establishment of worker training programs, while also requiring a 60-day notice to workers who may be replaced by AI.
Such legislation, continued Newman, “will go a long way to building trust between management and the workforce when it comes to AI employment tools.”
By Garry Boulard
