US States Advance New AI Legislation Addressing Healthcare, Deepfakes, and Child Protection
New state laws target AI in healthcare decisions, deepfakes, and AI companion risks for kids.
On April 24, 2026, several US states took significant steps to regulate artificial intelligence across critical sectors. Alabama's SB 63, signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey, establishes rules for AI use in healthcare coverage determinations, ensuring transparency and accountability when algorithms influence patient access to medical treatments. The law requires insurers to disclose when AI is used in coverage decisions and mandates human review for adverse determinations.
Meanwhile, Hawaii is advancing three AI-related bills through reconciliation. HB 1782 aims to protect minors interacting with AI companions, requiring strict age verification and safety protocols. Deepfake legislation is also progressing: Maryland's SB 8 and Hawaii's HB 2137 both target harmful uses of digital imitations, requiring disclosure of synthetic performers and prohibiting non-consensual deepfake content. These laws reflect growing bipartisan concern over AI's impact on healthcare equity, child safety, and digital authenticity.
- Alabama's SB 63 regulates AI in healthcare coverage decisions, requiring disclosure and human review.
- Hawaii's HB 1782 safeguards minors interacting with AI companions through age verification and safety protocols.
- Maryland's SB 8 and Hawaii's HB 2137 ban harmful deepfakes and mandate disclosure of synthetic performers.
Why It Matters
State-level AI laws create immediate compliance requirements for healthcare, tech, and entertainment companies.