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Didech made it clear in the interview, however, that he would not have supported the investment if the government had not delayed in implementing adequate safeguards.
“Governments shouldn’t be doing this,” Didech said. “The best way to manage this kind of risk would be a federal approach.” But “the fact is that Congress has not taken up the issue, and technology is developing so quickly that states have no choice but to intervene.”
Once Pritzker puts the law on the books, AI companies will be subject to the requirements as of January 1, 2027. Although the laws state that there is no right to privacy, any violation could subject companies to civil penalties.
Steve Wimmer, senior policy and technical advisor for the Transparency Coalition, worked with Illinois lawmakers on the statutory language. His non-profit group advocates for the promotion of AI policy and encourages AI technologies to be “developed and used in ways that prioritize safety, transparency, and the public good,” the website says.
In a post On the Transparency Coalition’s website, Wimmer said his group sees the bill as “one of the most important pieces of legislation in 2026.”
Rejecting claims that such legislation will disrupt innovation, Sen. Mary Edly-Allen, a co-author of the study, said the goal was to put in place “smaller barriers” to ensure that AI can be a “powerful tool.” In proposing the law, Edly-Allen noted that Illinois is creating “an innovative way to prevent accidents” and not a barrier to the growth of AI.
“Senate Bill 315 is not about stopping innovation but about balancing the great promise of AI with the potential harm,” he said.
Didech agreed with Edly-Allen, telling Wired that the Illinois law could be a “testing ground” for AI governance that could show the federal government how to deal with risks such as public distrust in AI. he continues to growth.
“Legislation like this gives the country an opportunity for the government to take action,” said Didech.
