Experts caution against AI discrimination at NRF Retail Law Summit

Legal experts and officials from the Equal Opportunity Employment Commission (EEOC) and the U.S. Department of Labor warned at the NRF Retail Law Summit about the risks of AI discrimination in the workplace. They highlighted how AI tools used in hiring and promotion could result in unlawful disparate impact based on protected characteristics like age, race, or gender. The discussion emphasized that while the EEOC has shifted focus under recent executive orders, AI-related discrimination remains unlawful and subject to litigation. Employers were advised to ensure AI tools do not unintentionally exclude or disadvantage protected groups.