New York AG Leads Coalition to Defend State AI Regulations

URGENT UPDATE: New York Attorney General Letitia James is spearheading a critical fight against proposed limits on state-level artificial intelligence (AI) regulations. Earlier today, James led a bipartisan coalition of 36 attorneys general urging Congress to reject language in the National Defense Authorization Act that would block states from enacting their own AI laws.

As congressional leaders consider this move, James warns that restricting state authority over AI poses significant safety risks. “Every state should be able to enact and enforce its own AI regulations to protect its residents,” she stated. Her comments come amid growing concerns about the impact of AI technologies on public welfare, particularly regarding children’s mental health and the proliferation of AI-generated scams.

New York recently implemented new AI regulations requiring companion operators to integrate safety protocols, including alerts for users engaging for prolonged periods. These regulations aim to protect vulnerable individuals by referring them to crisis centers if they exhibit signs of self-harm or suicidal thoughts. Furthermore, a bill is currently on its way to Gov. Kathy Hochul that mandates large AI companies disclose their safety protocols and report dangerous AI behavior.

The proposed Responsible AI Safety and Education Act (RAISE Act) aims to hold developers accountable for public safety threats and restrict the use of AI in creating bioweapons. Despite the federal uncertainty, New York is committed to balancing safety concerns with economic development pressures.

Justin Wilcox, executive director of Upstate United, emphasizes the need for a “smart” approach to AI regulation. He stresses the importance of investing in infrastructure, particularly the power grid, to support innovation while also addressing energy reliability issues. “Reliability margins are diminishing because we’re losing sources of energy quicker than we’re replacing them,” he noted.

In contrast, other legislative proposals are pushing for stricter reporting requirements on energy consumption by data centers, highlighting a growing tension between economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Dr. Michael Mandel, vice president and chief economist for the Progressive Policy Institute, has developed a strategic toolbox for states to implement effective AI policies. His recommendations include enhancing educational partnerships and offering robust tax incentives to attract innovative talent. “Smart tax incentives can yield positive economic effects, ensuring states are not giving away resources without accountability,” he said.

As this situation develops, the focus remains on how Congress will respond to the coalition’s urgent plea and what it means for the future of AI regulation at the state level. The implications of these decisions could resonate deeply with communities across the nation, making it essential for residents to stay informed on these pivotal developments.