COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio lawmakers have proposed new rules for how artificial intelligence can be used in workplace decisions. The legislation, House Bill 828, seeks to set standards for employers who use automated tools in hiring, promotion and disciplinary actions.
Reps. Ismail Mohamed, D-Columbus, and Veronica Sims, D-Akron, introduced the bill April 21. It defines an “automated employment decision tool” as any computational process using machine learning, statistical modeling, data analytics or artificial intelligence to assist or replace human judgment in employment matters.
The bill would ban employers, staffing agencies, and placement services from relying solely on automated tools when making employment decisions. Employers would need a person to review any system-generated output for accuracy.
Employers would also have to notify workers or job applicants in writing at least 10 days before using an automated system. That notice must explain how the tool works, what data it uses, and how long the data will be kept.
The bill gives workers the right to request an alternative evaluation process that does not involve artificial intelligence. Employers would be required to honor these requests.
Mohamed said the bill responds to concerns about transparency and accountability as AI becomes more common in the workplace.
“As workplaces continue to rely more heavily on artificial intelligence for hiring, promotions, discipline, and other employment decisions, it is important that safeguards are in place to protect workers,” Mohamed said in a statement. “The concern is not technology itself, but the lack of transparency and accountability when algorithms are allowed to make decisions that directly affect someone’s livelihood.”
He said automated systems can repeat existing biases and may create barriers for applicants and employees, especially if people do not know these tools are being used.
The bill has not yet been assigned to a committee for hearings or public testimony.
H.B. 828 is one of several measures before Ohio lawmakers this year that address artificial intelligence. The House Technology and Innovation Committee plans to study how AI is used across state systems. Other bills propose penalties for AI systems that encourage self-harm and target pricing algorithms that use non-public competitor data.
Supporters of these efforts have focused on consumer protection and public safety. Some critics warn against heavy regulation of a developing industry.
Mohamed said states such as Colorado and Illinois have adopted similar laws. He argued Ohio should act before possible harms become widespread.
“H.B. 828 is focused on ensuring human oversight remains part of the process and that workers have transparency and options when automated systems are involved,” Mohamed said.
