WASHINGTON — A federal initiative aimed at prohibiting states and local governments from enacting their own artificial intelligence regulations for a decade is inching closer to approval. Support from key Republican lawmakers, including Senator Ted Cruz, has propelled this proposal as part of a significant spending bill championed by former President Trump, who has dubbed it the “big, beautiful bill.”
This legislation, which was introduced in May, aims to prevent states from implementing any laws or regulations concerning artificial intelligence models, systems, or automated decision-making processes for ten years following its enactment. Currently, although there are no comprehensive federal laws specific to AI, various states have begun to create their own frameworks. For instance, California has recently instituted laws addressing AI technology, notably a ban on political deepfakes.
Proponents of the federal proposal argue that a uniform legislative approach could enhance innovation and maintain the United States’ competitive edge over global rivals like China. Major tech companies, including Google and OpenAI, have expressed support for the federal measure, contending that divergent state regulations could impede technological advancement and innovation.
However, critics warn that the proposed federal law may compromise necessary protections for individuals and communities. They argue it could diminish oversight, resulting in an environment where large AI corporations operate with minimal accountability. Sean O’Brien, the president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which represents over 1.3 million workers, has voiced strong opposition, asserting that the law undermines citizens’ ability to enact regulations at the local level. His statement, shared on social media, described the proposal as a “giveaway to Big Tech” that allows major companies to benefit from operating without regulation.
As Congress aims to finalize the budget measure by the upcoming July 4 deadline, negotiations have evolved. Senator Marsha Blackburn announced that she and Senator Cruz reached a compromise that modifies the regulation timeline. Under the revised plan, states would be barred from regulating AI for a period of five years, conditional upon their access to $500 million allocated for AI infrastructure and deployment within the bill. This adjustment comes in response to critiques of the original ten-year prohibition, which Blackburn opposed.
As discussions progress, the implications of this proposed federal law continue to raise questions about the future of AI regulation in the United States and its potential impact on innovation, accountability, and consumer protection.
This article was automatically written by Open AI, and the people, facts, circumstances, and story may be inaccurate. Any article can be requested for removal, retraction, or correction by writing an email to contact@publiclawlibrary.org.