A little-known New York state law is blocking government agencies from replacing workers or tasks with AI, raising concerns about missed efficiency gains and financial losses for taxpayers. The legislation, which appears to be the only one of its kind in the nation, mandates that civil servants retain their roles even as automation advances. Officials warn the rule could leave the state at a competitive disadvantage while forcing agencies to maintain outdated workflows. Critics argue the policy may ultimately strain public budgets without clear benefits.
An obscure state law guarantees that no civil servant in New York will lose a job, or even a single task, to AI — potentially costing NYC and the Empire State big bucks.
