The B.C. Green Party is calling on the provincial government to establish a citizens’ assembly on artificial intelligence, warning that the rapidly evolving technology poses wide-ranging risks to public safety, jobs, the arts, climate policy and affordability.

West Vancouver–Sea to Sky MLA Jeremy Valeriote said AI is “rapidly reshaping our world” and argued that decisions about its regulation are being made behind closed doors without meaningful public input.

“We have existential questions about how we want this technology to shape our lives,” Valeriote said, adding that a people’s assembly would give British Columbians a direct role in shaping AI policy through a non-partisan, expert-informed process.

The Greens say governments have so far focused primarily on economic opportunities and energy demands tied to AI development, while failing to adequately consult the public on its broader social impacts.

Party leader Emily Lowan said the rise of AI has intensified concerns about corporate influence and worker protections, calling for stronger regulation and greater democratic oversight.

“The greatest threat to workers, and to humanity, is unchecked corporate greed,” Lowan said. “While our government is twiddling its thumbs, we will continue to push for real regulation and putting democracy back in the hands of the 99 per cent.”

The party has also raised concerns about the provincial Minister of State for AI and New Technologies, Rick Glumac, including calls for the release of his ministry’s service plan and questions about his personal investments in the sector.

Valeriote said responses from the minister have not eased public concerns about the government’s approach to the industry.

The B.C. Greens argue a citizens’ assembly would bring together residents from diverse backgrounds to study the issue with expert input and develop recommendations on how AI should be regulated and deployed in the province.