S.Amdt. 6604

This amendment, submitted by Mr. Grassley and Mr. Coons, aims to add a new section titled "Anti-Retaliation Protection for AI Whistleblowers" to bill S. 4784.

The purpose of this amendment is to protect "covered individuals" (which include employees and various types of contractors) from being punished by their employers for reporting AI violations.

What it changes or adds:

• Prohibits Retaliation: It stops employers from firing, demoting, suspending, harassing, or discriminating against individuals who provide information about AI violations to regulatory officials, the Attorney General, law enforcement, Congress, or supervisors.
• Defines AI Violations: It defines an "AI violation" as breaking federal laws regarding artificial intelligence, failing to respond to dangers AI may pose to national security, public health, or public safety, or failing to prevent AI technology from being stolen.
• Provides Enforcement Paths: It allows aggrieved individuals to file complaints with the Secretary of Labor or bring a lawsuit in U.S. district court.
• Sets Penalties for Employers: If an individual wins their case, relief includes reinstatement, two times the amount of back pay with interest, and compensatory damages like attorney's fees and litigation costs.
• Protects Legal Rights: It makes it illegal to use contracts or "predispute arbitration agreements" to waive these whistleblower rights.