Powerful institutions are using automated decision-making against us. Landlords use it to decide who gets a home. Insurance companies use it to decide who gets health care. ICE uses it to decide who must submit to location tracking by electronic monitoring. Bosses use it to decide who gets fired, and to predict who is organizing a union or planning to quit. Bosses even use AI to assess the body language and voice tone of job candidates. And these systems often discriminate based on gender, race, and other protected statuses. Fortunately, workers, patients, and renters are resisting. In 2024, Colorado enacted a limited but crucial step forward against automated abuse: the AI Act (S.B. 24-205). We commend the labor, digital rights, and other advocates who have worked to enact and protect it. Colorado recently delayed the Act’s effective date to June 30, 2026. EFF looks forward to enforcement of the Colorado AI Act, opposes weakening or further delaying it, and supports strengthening it. What the Colorado AI Act Does The Colorado AI Act is a good step in the right direction. It regulates “high risk AI systems,” meaning machine-based technologies that are a “substantial factor” in deciding whether a person will have access to education, employment, loans, government services, healthcare, housing, insurance, or legal services. An AI-system is a “substantial factor” in those decisions if it assisted in the decision and could alter its outcome. The Act’s protections include transparency, due process, and impact assessments. The Act is a solid foundation. Still, EFF urges Colorado to strengthen it Transparency. The Act requires “developers” (who create high-risk AI systems) and “deployers” (who use them) to provide information to the general public and affected individuals about these systems, including their purposes, the types and sources of inputs, and efforts to mitigate known harms. Developers and deployers also must notify people if they are being subjected to these systems. Transparency protections like these can be a baseline in a comprehensive regulatory program that facilitates enforcement of other protections. Due process. The Act empowers people subjected to high-risk AI systems to exercise some self-help to seek a fair decision about them. A deployer must notify them of the reasons for the decision, the degree the system contributed to the decision, and the types and sources of inputs. The deployer also must provide them an opportunity to correct any incorrect inputs. And the deployer must provide them an opportunity to appeal, including with human review. Impact assessments. The Act requires a developer, before providing a high-risk AI system to a deployer, to disclose known or reasonably foreseeable discriminatory harms by the system, and the intended use of the AI. In turn, the Act requires a deployer to complete an annual impact assessment for each of its high-risk AI systems, including a review of whether they cause algorithmic discrimination. A deployer also must implement a risk management program that is proportionate to the nature and scope of the AI, the sensitivity of the data it processes, and more. Deployers must regularly review their risk management programs to identify and mitigate any known or reasonably foreseeable risks of algorithmic discrimination. Impact assessment regulations like these can helpfully place a proactive duty on developers and deployers to find and solve problems, as opposed to doing nothing until an individual subjected to a high-risk system comes forward to exercise their rights. How the Colorado AI Act Should Be Strengthened The Act is a solid foundation. Still, EFF urges Colorado to strengthen it, especially in its enforcement mechanisms. Private right of action. The Colorado AI Act grants exclusive enforcement to the state attorney general. But no regulatory agency will ever have enough resources to investigate and enforce all violations of a law, and many government agencies get “captured” by the industries they are supposed to regulate. So Colorado should amend its Act to empower ordinary people to sue the companies that violate their legal protections from high-risk AI systems. This is often called a “private right of action,” and it is the best way to ensure robust enforcement. For example, the people of Illinois and Texas on paper have similar rights to biometric privacy, but in practice the people of Illinois have far more enjoyment of this right because they can sue violators. Civil rights enforcement. One of the biggest problems with high-risk AI systems is that they recurringly have an unfair disparate impact against vulnerable groups, and so one of the biggest solutions will be vigorous enforcement of civil rights laws. Unfortunately, the Colorado AI Act contains a confusing “rebuttable presumption” – that is, an evidentiary thumb on the scale – that may impede such enforcement. Specifically, if a deployer or developer complies with the Act, then they get a rebuttable presumption that they complied with the Act’s requirement of “reasonable care” to protect people from algorithmic discrimination. In practice, this may make it harder for a person subjected to a high-risk AI system to prove their discrimination claim. Other civil rights laws generally do not have this kind of provision. Colorado should amend its Act to remove it. Next Steps Colorado is off to an important start. Now it should strengthen its AI Act, and should not weaken or further delay it. Other states must enact their own laws. All manner of automated decision-making systems are unfairly depriving people of jobs, health care, and more. EFF has long been fighting against such practices. We believe technology should improve everyone’s lives, not subject them to abuse and discrimination. We hope you will join us.

The newly imposed sanctions target Russian-based web host Media Land, which officials say are linked to LockBit and BlackSuit ransomware attacks.

According to Amazon, the feature "utilizes generative AI to create theatrical-quality season recaps with synchronized narration, dialogue, and music."

Bluesky is making moderation changes, including the addition of new reporting categories, strikes, and more clarity when communicating with users about violations.

Kiki Club, a subletting startup that matches listers and renters, violated NYC laws and had to pay the city over $152,000 to settle charges.

Is a career change for Mike Gundy coming? In September, Oklahoma State University announced that it was parting ways with head football coach Mike Gundy, days before his Big 12 opener against Baylor University, marking his 21st season with the program. The news was heartbreaking for football fans everywhere, as Gundy was an integral part of the Cowboy football program over the last two decades and is an iconic college football coach who is well respected across all conferences. This decision came after the Cowboys lost to Tulsa, which marked Tulsa’s first victory over Oklahoma State since 1998 and the school’s first win at OSU since 1951. Oklahoma State athletic director Chad Weiberg said in a statement: “Cowboy Football reached an unprecedented level of success and national prominence under Coach Gundy’s leadership. I believe I speak for OSU fans everywhere when I say that we are grateful for all he did to raise the standard and show us all what is possible for Oklahoma State football.” The decision also comes after Gundy publicly stated that he intended to remain the Pokes’ fearless leader beyond the 2025 season. “I’m under contract, here, for I think 3½ years. When I was hired here to take this job, ever since that day, I’ve put my heart and soul into this, and I will continue to do that until, at some point, if I say I don’t want to do it or if somebody else says we don’t want you to do it.” The university’s decision to fire Gundy means Oklahoma State owes him $15 million. This news is shocking to college football fans everywhere, as Gundy is the second-longest Football Bowl Subdivision head coach. He’s had an incredible run with the Cowboys. However, the Cowboys have been on a downward spiral since the end of the 2023 season. While this news is not shocking to Oklahoma State fans, it is heartbreaking to see it happen mid-season and to think about Gundy’s famed mullet no longer being the face of Cowboy football. View this post on Instagram Since being let go by the university, Gundy has kept a very low profile, primarily taking care of his two properties, Stillwater, Oklahoma, and spending two weeks in Colorado after floods hit the city of Pagosa Springs, per Pokes Report. Aside from being spotted around town, dining or running errands, Gundy has really remained out of the public eye since his firing… until now. Mike Gundy made his triumphant return to the public eye speaking on…. On behalf of the Oklahoma State hockey team? Don’t get me wrong, Oklahoma State’s hockey team is a stellar ACHA DII team (the club sport team is ranked No. 1 in the Western Region); however, this video feels a little odd yet heartwarming at the same time. It’s tender seeing that Gundy is still sporting OK State gear and cheering on his alma mater, but it’s eerie that he’s jumping from one spot team’s promotion to another and feels like he’s reading off a script–which, who knows, he might be. Gundy stepped behind the camera to promote the upcoming Bedlam game against the University of Oklahoma, scheduled for the end of February. “Oklahoma State fans, I’m here, and we’re a hockey school now. How ’bout that? Oklahoma State hockey. You guys better get your tickets right now to Bedlham—February 28th. I need to come see that myself. I’m excited, I like me some hockey. I’m fired up.  Go Pokes hockey, I love that.”  You heard it here first, Bedlam on Ice tickets are available now! Purchase tickets to Bedlam at the BOK Center at the Linktree in our bio! #gopokes | #okstatehockey pic.twitter.com/TOZ3FRLIYS — OSU Cowboy Hockey (@okstatehockey) November 18, 2025 Like I said, it’s terrific to see that Gundy hasn’t burned all his clothing with Pistol Pete on it, but it feels somewhat strange that his first time speaking on social media since being fired has nothing to do with the matter. Of course, he might want to keep his head down and keep living his life, waiting for the next opportunity. Many social media users also watched this video and were left with an unsettled feeling… who knows, maybe Gundy could do a major career shift, and this is his way of soft-launching that he’s going into hockey. First words on social media since he was let go and wearing the gear. I still don’t ever see his coaching again he ain’t got shit to prove enjoy the game life and someday get his name on the field https://t.co/VuvNCivIfJ — Jay Mack (@BSm00ve35) November 19, 2025 …is Mike Gundy down so bad he’s doing school Cameos now? https://t.co/B6jjJj959n — John Lund (@lundinbridge) November 19, 2025 Coach on some good shit in retirement https://t.co/0672m9bSCp — Captain (GDawg) (@CptSwollhouse) November 19, 2025 This is so weird in ways I can't explain. https://t.co/bgIRskGPQ5 — Jacob Roberson (@realjroberson) November 19, 2025 Who would’ve thought doing a Cameo for the OSU club hockey team would be the first time Gundy speaks publicly since getting fired https://t.co/iXscPC9WAU — Local Man (@ColdDudeKTA) November 18, 2025 The first words we hear from Mike Gundy in nearly two months are promoting Pokes puck. Oklahoma State is now a #CawlidgeHawkey school.@Buccigross https://t.co/hJ80v0uMgX — Dylan McLemore (@voiceofD) November 19, 2025 Not gonna lie, this breaks my heart a bit https://t.co/eus3latR8q — CowpokeU (@cowpoke_u) November 18, 2025 This has the same energy as a hostage being filmed reading a letter about how well they are being treated. https://t.co/Afsl3mBtpI — Nate (@N_T_G_0911) November 19, 2025 Is it just me or does it feel like someone is standing outside of the camera frame telling him what to say? https://t.co/SJa0q09JX7 — Boomer (@Run_Away_Riley) November 19, 2025 And just like that I’m on the hire Gundy back train. https://t.co/778iamHvNT — PokesTok (@PokesTok) November 19, 2025 Oklahoma State University Athletics is an absolute fever dream and has been for like 50 years Every day I wake up thinking I’ve seen it all and every day my mind is blown even more Just an absolute roller coaster ride https://t.co/TlW9aDSXgG — Ryan Barclay (@RyanBarcSports) November 19, 2025 Is this AI? Gundy, after being fired by OSU randomly pops up promoting OSU hockey? “I hear we’re a hockey school now” @tulsafoodguy https://t.co/D74zwBKpJr — Shane (@wanderingshane) November 19, 2025 Did not have Mike Gundy plugs OSU hockey on my bingo card for Gundy’s return to public life https://t.co/YZmFhtju5z — POKE SALAD (@pokesaladcfb) November 19, 2025 This being his first public statement after being fired is the most Mike gundy thing ever https://t.co/4jNN43x4dO — thunder ring #2 incoming (@jw_rabon) November 19, 2025  The post “We’re A Hockey School Now” – Mike Gundy Leaves Fans Confused As First Statement Since His Firing Is Awkward Promo For Oklahoma State Hockey first appeared on Whiskey Riff.

Talk about a mixed bag of songs. Last night, November 18th, the 73rd annual Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI) Country Awards took place in Nashville. On a star-studded night that featured well-over a hundred different songwriters and publishers being honored for their work throughout the year both on country radio and on streaming services alike. The night was headlined by none other than ’90s country legend, Clint Black, being honored with the 2025 BMI Icon Award, celebrating his career accomplishments that include 22 #1 singles since joining BMI in 1993, selling over 20 million records, 20 career BMI Awards and a laundry list of influential hits such as “Killin’ Time,” “A Better Man” and “Like the Rain.” With his Icon Award, Black joins the likes of legendary artists and songwriters including but not limited to Willie Nelson, Hank Williams Jr., Dolly Parton, Toby Keith, Loretty Lynn, Merle Haggard, Dean Dillon, Kris Kirstofferson, Vince Gill and many more. Additionally, Post Malone and Morgan Wallen were honored in a big way with their all-genre #1 and smash hit, “I Had Some Help” winning Country Song of the Year. Given that BMI gives awards to songwriters and publishers, Wallen and Post, along with ERNEST, Charlie Handsome and Hoskin, took home the award along with publishers, Big Loud Mountain, Ernest Money Music, Erns Cadillac Music, Honey Hole Publishing, Sony/ATV Songs LLC, Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp. Notably, BMI awarded the songwriters and publishers to the Top 50 most-performed songs of the year, tracking songs that have received the most performances across terrestrial radio, satellite radio and digital streaming services throughout 2025. In other words, BMI listed the most popular songs of 2025 across both streaming platforms and radio. And to no one’s surprise, there’s a wide variety of songs from both a quality and sonic perspective. Unsurprisingly, Wallen dominates this list, scoring four of the Top 50 songs with “I Had Some Help,” “Spin You Around (1/24),” “Lies Lies Lies” and “Love Somebody” all being awarded. Surprisngly, Jelly Roll tied Wallen with the lead with an additional four entries in the Top 50. As previously mentioned, there is a huge discrepancy when it comes to song quality on this list. As for the lows, Dasha’s viral hit, “Austin (Boots Stop Workin’),” Dustin Lynch and Jelly Roll’s disastrous remix of “Drift Away” on “Chevrolet,” Dylan Marlowe and Dylan Scott’s bro-country bore, “Boys Back Home,” Marshmello and Kane Brown’s EDM-inspired, “Miles On It” and Chase Matthew’s “Love You Again” round out the worst the Top 50 most-played country songs of 2025 has to offer. Thankfully, there are plenty of bright spots throughout the list. In addition to Zach Bryan scoring three seperate entries for “28,” “Tourniquet” and “Pink Skies,” fan-favorites in both the traditional and alternative country scene also make the list. Notably, Cody Johnson scored two entries for “Dirt Cheap” and “I’m Gonna Love You” while Riley Green scored one for “Worst Way.” Finally (and arguably most exciting), The Red Clay Strays, Zach Top, Koe Wetzel and Ella Langley all received their first career nods inside BMI’s Top 50 most-played country songs of the year with their respective smash hits, “Wondering Why,” “I Never Lie,” “High Road” and “you look like you love me.” BMI’s Top 50 most-played country songs of 2025 is as follows: “28” – Zach Bryan “4X4XU” – Lainey Wilson “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” – Shaboozey “Ain’t No Love In Oklahoma” – Luke Combs “Am I Okay?” – Megan Moroney “Austin (Boots Stop Workin’)” – Dasha “Back Then Right Now” – Tyler Hubbard “Beautiful As You” – Thomas Rhett “Bigger Houses” – Dan + Shay “Boys Back Home” – Dylan Marlowe & Dylan Scott “Bulletproof” – Nate Smith “Cab in a Solo” – Scotty McCreery “Chevrolet” – Dustin Lynch ft. Jelly Roll “Dirt Cheap” – Cody Johnson “Gonna Love You” – Parmalee “Guy for That” – Post Malone ft. Luke Combs “Halfway to Hell” – Jelly Roll “High Road” – Koe Wetzel “Holy Smokes” – Bailey Zimmerman “I Ain’t Sayin'” – Jordan Davis “I Am Not Okay” – Jelly Roll “I Can Feel It” – Kane Brown “I Had Some Help” – Post Malone ft. Morgan Wallen “I Never Lie” – Zach Top “I’m Gonna Love You” – Cody Johnson & Carrie Underwood “I’m Not Pretty” – Megan Moroney “Let Your Boys Be Country” – Jason Aldean “Liar” – Jelly Roll “Lies, Lies, Lies” – Morgan Wallen “Love Somebody” – Morgan Wallen “Love You Again” – Chase Matthew “Love You, Miss You, Mean It” – Luke Bryan “Miles On It” – Marshmello & Kane Brown “Mind On You” – George Birge “Pink Skies” – Zach Bryan “Pour Me A Drink” – Post Malone ft. Blake Shelton “She’s Somebody’s Daughter (Reimagined)” – Drew Baldridge “Spin You Around (1/24)” – Morgan Wallen “Take Her Home” – Kenny Chesney “This Is My Dirt” – Justin Moore “This Town’s Been Too Good To Us” – Dylan Scott “Tourniquet” – Zach Bryan “We Ride” – Bryan Martin “Wildflowers and Wild Horses” – Lainey Wilson “Wind Up Missin’ You” – Tucker Wetmore “Wondering Why” – The Red Clay Strays “Worst Way” – Riley Green “you look like you love me” – Ella Langley “Young Love & Saturday Nights” – Chris Young “Your Place” – Ashley Cooke The post Zach Top, The Red Clay Strays, Morgan Wallen, Koe Wetzel & More Headline BMI’s Top 50 Most-Performed Songs Of The Year first appeared on Whiskey Riff.