New York AG Leads 36 States in Urgent AI Regulation Fight

UPDATE: New York Attorney General Letitia James is spearheading an urgent campaign alongside 36 attorneys general to challenge federal legislation that could cripple state-level regulations on artificial intelligence (AI). On October 10, 2023, James emphasized the critical need for states to safeguard their residents as Congress considers amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act that would limit state powers over AI governance.

The coalition insists that preventing states from enacting their own AI regulations poses a significant safety and security risk. “Every state should be able to enact and enforce its own AI regulations to protect its residents,” James declared. She highlighted alarming issues, such as AI chatbots harming children’s mental health and the proliferation of AI-generated deepfakes facilitating scams.

As the federal government contemplates these sweeping changes, President Donald Trump is also weighing an executive order that would establish a task force to confront state regulations. James is adamant that states are better positioned to address the unique threats posed by AI technologies.

New York is at the forefront of this initiative, having implemented regulations this month that require AI operators to incorporate safety features. These measures include interrupting users who engage with AI for extended periods and providing crisis support for users exhibiting suicidal tendencies. Further legislation is currently being reviewed, including a bill poised to reach Gov. Kathy Hochul that mandates large AI firms disclose their safety protocols and alert the public when an AI model poses a danger.

The Responsible AI Safety and Education (RAISE) Act aims to hold AI developers accountable for potential public safety risks and prevents the misuse of AI in creating bioweapons. With ongoing uncertainty at the federal level, New York’s proactive stance seeks to balance regulatory safety with economic growth.

Justin Wilcox, executive director of Upstate United, advocates for a “smart” approach to AI regulation, emphasizing the necessity for investments in the state’s power grid and a diverse energy portfolio. He criticized current climate laws, stating, “Reliability margins are diminishing because we’re losing sources of energy quicker than we’re replacing them.”

Meanwhile, the state legislature is considering other bills that could impose limits and reporting requirements on energy consumption from data centers. Dr. Michael Mandel, vice president and chief economist at the Progressive Policy Institute, has proposed a “toolbox” for states to implement effective AI policies. His recommendations include educational partnerships and robust tax incentive programs to stimulate job growth and innovation.

“Studies show a positive economic effect from tax incentives,” Mandel noted, stressing the importance of ensuring these incentives deliver tangible benefits to the community.

As this battle unfolds, all eyes are on Congress and the potential implications for state autonomy and public safety. Stakeholders are urging immediate action to protect local regulatory powers and ensure that AI technologies are developed responsibly. Follow this story for the latest updates as the situation develops.