Connecticut Attorney General William Tong has released a new memorandum outlining how existing state laws apply to artificial intelligence, signaling heightened scrutiny of AI systems used by businesses and organizations operating in the state.
The advisory is directed to state officials, agencies and members of the public and explains how current civil rights, privacy, data security, consumer protection and antitrust laws can be enforced in cases involving AI-driven harm.
“The development and use of artificial intelligence is expanding with breathtaking speed and reach,” Tong wrote in the memorandum, warning that while AI offers new opportunities, it also poses serious risks. He cited concerns ranging from discrimination and bias to the spread of disinformation and the misuse of personal data. Tong also referenced the recent proliferation of AI-generated nonconsensual sexual abuse images on xAI’s Grok platform as an example of how the technology can cause harm.
The memorandum highlights common uses of AI in business, including tenant screening, hiring decisions, credit and loan approvals, insurance claims processing and targeted advertising. Tong emphasized that consumers need transparency regarding how their data is collected and used to train AI systems, and that businesses remain legally responsible for ensuring their use of AI complies with state law.
The guidance details legal authorities available to the Office of the Attorney General, including Connecticut’s civil rights statutes, privacy and data security laws, the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act and antitrust provisions.
Tong noted that while AI continues to evolve rapidly, existing legal frameworks already provide tools to hold companies accountable. He also signaled openness to additional legislative action to strengthen protections for families and children.
Consumers and businesses who believe they have been harmed by unlawful AI practices may file complaints through the Office of the Attorney General’s website.
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