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Consent Layer Specification

Governing AI Interactions Through Explicit Permission​

The Consent Layer is the foundation of The Human Channel's Consent-First AI architecture. It defines how permission is granted, logged, verified, and enforced across all AI-mediated interactions.

The Consent Layer operates as a real-time decision framework that determines whether any AI system is authorized to initiate, continue, or process a given interaction.

  • Serves as the binding contract between the individual and the AI system.
  • Embeds permission directly into data structures (via Smart Packets).
  • Supports granular control over what data can be used, when, for what purpose, and by whom.
  • Provides regulators with transparent, auditable records of consent activity.

Consent Scope
Defines the specific domains, topics, or functions for which consent is granted. Scope boundaries prevent AI from expanding beyond its authorized role.

Purpose Limitation
Specifies the exact purpose(s) for which data may be used. Examples include: information delivery, appointment scheduling, billing support, or identity verification.

Duration Controls
Consent includes both start and expiration timestamps, ensuring permissions remain time-bound unless renewed.

Delegation Rights
Identifies whether an individual permits AI systems to escalate requests, hand off to other agents, or initiate follow-up actions.

Data Access Permissions
Specifies which data categories the AI may access, including personal information, voice recordings, transaction history, or behavioral data.

Geographic Jurisdiction
Links consent to applicable legal frameworks (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, EU AI Act), ensuring jurisdictional compliance.

Revocation Mechanism
Enables individuals to revoke consent at any time, automatically triggering enforcement actions that terminate unauthorized AI activity.

  1. Pending — Awaiting user initiation and confirmation.
  2. Active — Consent is valid and enforceable.
  3. Paused — Temporarily suspended by the user.
  4. Revoked — Consent withdrawn and terminated.
  5. Expired — Automatically terminated upon reaching the time limit.
  • AI systems check the Consent Layer prior to every interaction.
  • SPID identifiers serve as the verification reference point.
  • Consent Logs are updated in real time to reflect status changes.
  • Discrepancies or expired permissions automatically halt AI actions.
  • Consent Record ID
  • User Identity Reference (SPID)
  • Timestamped Grant and Revocation Events
  • Consent Scope Details
  • Authorized AI System IDs
  • Regulatory Jurisdiction Codes
  • Audit Trail References

Machine-Readable Format​

The Consent Layer operates using machine-readable schemas compatible with:

  • JSON-LD for data portability
  • Smart Packets for embedded delivery
  • API-based verification queries for external systems

Relationship to Other Protocol Layers​

  • SPID Protocol governs the identity layer linked to consent records.
  • Smart Packets carry the consent metadata directly with each communication.
  • Trust Stack ensures that consent is enforced, explainable, and auditable.

The Human Channel Commitment​

The Consent Layer Specification reflects The Human Channel’s core belief that permission is the non-negotiable starting point for all AI interactions.

Consent is not an afterthought, a checkbox, or a buried legal disclaimer. It is an active, enforceable protocol that governs AI behavior at every step, protecting both individual autonomy and organizational accountability.