VRSim Testifies in Support of SB2: Advocating for AI Innovation and Fair Regulation in Connecticut

On February 26, 2025, David Zboray, Operations Manager for VRSim, Inc. testified before the Connecticut General Assembly’s General Law Committee in support of SB2, An Act Concerning Artificial Intelligence. This landmark bill aims to establish a robust framework for AI development and regulation in Connecticut, ensuring both innovation and responsible oversight.

At VRSim, a leader in virtual reality training systems for skilled trades, allied health, and public safety, we recognize AI’s transformative potential. Participating in the public hearing gave VRSim the opportunity to underscore the importance of policies that promote AI growth while maintaining fairness for businesses of all sizes.

Zboray’s testimony, alongside written contributions from VRSim’s CEO & President, Matthew Wallace, highlighted several areas of the company’s support for AI regulation in Connecticut:

1. Clear and Accessible AI Compliance Standards: A major concern among small businesses is navigating complex and costly regulations. VRSim supports regulatory efforts that will establish clear and predictable compliance standards, ensuring that businesses—regardless of size—understand expectations and can integrate AI responsibly.
2. Ensuring Fair Oversight and Preventing AI Monopolization: AI development is often dominated by large tech corporations with significant resources, leaving smaller companies at a disadvantage. VRSim supports efforts to:
   1. Ensure fair regulatory enforcement, preventing large firms from exerting undue influence over AI standards.
   2. Encourage responsible AI innovation, providing incentives that allow startups and small businesses to remain competitive.
   3. Prevent monopolization, ensuring AI development is not concentrated in the hands of a few major players.
3. Supporting a Competitive and Inclusive AI Ecosystem: Connecticut has the potential to become a leader in AI policy, but to do so, it must foster an environment where both large and small businesses can thrive. A balanced approach to AI regulation ensures that all companies—regardless of size—have an opportunity to contribute to and benefit from AI advancements.
4. Establishing a Connecticut AI Institute: A crucial step toward making Connecticut a hub for AI research and innovation would be to establish an “AI Institute”. VRSim supports this initiative in order to:
   1. Provide funding for AI research and development, allowing businesses and startups to scale new technologies.
   2. Develop AI talent pipelines through partnerships with universities and technical programs, ensuring a workforce equipped for AI-driven industries.
   3. Promote public-sector AI adoption, improving government efficiency and services with AI-driven solutions.
   4. Ensure ethical and responsible AI deployment, setting standards for transparency and bias mitigation.
   5. Establish AI literacy programs to educate residents, businesses, and policymakers on the technology’s benefits and responsible use.

As AI continues to reshape industries, VRSim believes Connecticut must act now to invest in innovation, create high-paying jobs, and establish itself as a leader in ethical and responsible AI development. VRSim is proud to support SB2 and will continue advocating for policies that empower businesses, workers, and communities to succeed in an AI-driven future.