Washington, Feb 4 (NationPress) Top US lawmakers have raised alarms that artificial intelligence (AI)human oversight as organizations increasingly embrace these new technologies.

During a House hearing titled 'Building an AI-Ready America: Adopting AI at Work' on Tuesday (local time), legislators expressed concerns over whether current labor laws and data management systems are equipped to adapt to the rapid advancements in AI.

Chairman Congressman Rick W. Allen remarked that AI has transitioned from being mere science fiction to a transformative force across sectors. He emphasized the necessity for Congress to safeguard workers' rights while fostering innovation and economic growth.

Allen urged for comprehensive data collection, stating that federal agencies need to monitor how AI is reshaping the workplace landscape. This data is essential for informed policy-making.

Rep. Mark DeSaulnier, the leading Democrat on the panel, pointed out legitimate concerns, mentioning that some companies exploit AI for monitoring employees and suppressing collective efforts. He referenced technologies that surveil bathroom breaks and screen activity, which pose threats to worker privacy.

Labour and employment attorney Bradford Kelley advised caution, warning against hastily crafted regulations that could stifle innovation and diminish US competitiveness. He argued that existing laws already address most issues, and inconsistent state regulations are causing confusion.

Labour economist Revana Sharfuddin highlighted a significant data gap. Current federal statistics primarily track jobs rather than the tasks performed. AI often automates certain aspects of jobs without fully replacing positions.

"The job still exists," she stated, "but the nature of work has evolved." She called for updated surveys to capture how employees are utilizing AI.

Tanya Goldman, a former worker protection official, noted that negative impacts are already evident. She stated that employers leverage AI for wage determination, schedule management, and performance monitoring.

Goldman cautioned that these systems might exacerbate biases and impose unsafe work speeds, warning that constant monitoring can deter legitimate employee activities.

Goldman advocated for stricter enforcement of current regulations, alongside the introduction of new safeguards for AI applications, which should include transparency, human review of significant decisions, and bias testing. She also suggested that states should have the autonomy to establish more stringent rules.

David Walton, a management-side attorney, observed that AI usage has surged in recruitment, safety, and compliance fields. He mentioned that many employers are instituting internal controls, such as bias testing and ensuring human involvement in critical decisions to protect workers while enhancing efficiency.

Walton stressed the importance of providing workers with clear explanations surrounding AI usage; without proper understanding, employees may circumvent systems. He emphasized the necessity of early feedback and input from employees.

Democrats pointed out that enforcement agencies are under-resourced. They stressed the need for qualified personnel and technical expertise to assess complex AI systems effectively. The hearing concluded with a consensus on one key issue: improved data collection is crucial. Allen reiterated that policies should be driven by evidence, benefiting both workers and employers.