AI Frontier Institute

Establishes Office of Algorithmic Civil Rights in DLPS to prevent discrimination in use of algorithms.

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New Jersey Assembly Bill No. 5550 (introduced September 24, 2026 and referred to the Assembly Science, Innovation and Technology Committee) has not been enacted. If enacted, it would create an Office of Algorithmic Civil Rights in the Department of Law and Public Safety to prevent discrimination in the use of algorithms by State entities. The Attorney General would appoint a director, who would serve at the Attorney General's pleasure and could hire staff within appropriated funds. Lived or work experience with algorithms and civil rights would be considered in hiring. The office's core functions would be to serve as a central source of expertise and data on harms from "high-risk algorithmic systems" (automated or semi-automated systems used by State entities that may affect access to housing, public benefits, employment, healthcare, education, or involvement with the criminal justice system), support education and safe practices, analyze and report on data, advise on improvements to State entity processes, and deliver training. The Attorney General could expand its duties in response to emerging needs. Under section 1(d), the office would audit high-risk algorithmic systems used by State entities at least biannually. Audits would cover purpose and use, data inputs, bias or disparate impact, mitigation measures, and a public summary consistent with privacy laws. If bias or discrimination risk is found, the office would issue recommendations, and the State entity would have to develop and implement a corrective action plan within a timeframe set by the director. Each State entity that uses, funds, or oversees algorithms would designate an algorithmic civil rights liaison. The office would submit an annual report to the Governor and Legislature, and the director would adopt rules under the Administrative Procedure Act. The bill would not limit the authority of the Division on Civil Rights or other civil rights enforcers. It would take effect immediately (section 2).

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