New York AG Leads 36 States in Urging Congress on AI Regulations

UPDATE: New York Attorney General Letitia James has just led a bipartisan coalition of 36 attorneys general in a critical move urging Congress to reject language in the National Defense Authorization Act that would block states from enforcing their own artificial intelligence regulations. This urgent appeal comes as federal leaders consider legislation that could jeopardize state-level protections for AI users, raising significant safety and security concerns.

In a powerful statement, James highlighted the dangers of restricting state regulations. “Every state should be able to enact and enforce its own AI regulations to protect its residents,” she asserted. She emphasized that certain AI chatbots have negatively impacted children’s mental health and that AI-generated deepfakes facilitate scams.

New York is at the forefront of AI regulation, having implemented new safety features this month. These regulations require AI companion operators to interrupt users engaging for extended periods and provide protocols for users expressing suicidal thoughts, including referrals to crisis centers. Furthermore, a bill is poised for Gov. Kathy Hochul’s desk, mandating large AI companies to disclose safety protocols and report dangerous AI behaviors.

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

Justin Wilcox, executive director of Upstate United, has called for a “smart” approach to AI regulations, advocating for investments in energy infrastructure. He warned that current climate laws hinder the ability to maintain a diverse energy portfolio, saying, “Reliability margins, looking into the future, are diminishing because we’re losing sources of energy and generation quicker than we’re replacing them.”

Additionally, there are legislative efforts underway to impose limits and reporting requirements on energy consumption by data centers.

Dr. Michael Mandel, vice president and chief economist for the Progressive Policy Institute, has developed a strategic toolbox for states implementing AI policies. This includes enhancing the power grid and fostering educational partnerships to drive job growth. He insists that any initiatives must be coupled with robust tax incentives to attract innovation, stating, “Studies have shown a positive economic effect from tax incentives.”

As the situation develops, the implications of these discussions are profound. The outcomes will not only affect state regulations but could also shape the future landscape of AI governance across the United States. With public safety and economic innovation on the line, all eyes will be on Congress as they deliberate on this pivotal issue.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.