Trump Vows to Block State AI Laws with Executive Order

Trump Announces Planned Executive Order on AI Regulation

Former President Donald Trump revealed on Monday his intention to issue an executive order this week. This order would aim to curtail the authority of individual states to independently regulate artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

Executive Order Details

Trump announced his plan via social media, stating, “I will be doing a ONE RULE Executive Order this week.” He emphasized the burden placed on companies, noting, “You can’t expect a company to get 50 Approvals every time they want to do something.”

He further asserted the need for uniformity, declaring, “There must be only One Rulebook if we are going to continue to lead in AI.” Trump believes the U.S. currently leads the global AI race, but fears this advantage will be lost if states impose varying regulations. He warned that such a fragmented approach “WILL BE DESTROYED IN ITS INFANCY!”

Congressional Setback and State Action

This announcement follows a recent unsuccessful attempt in the Senate to preempt state AI regulation. The proposal was removed from consideration within a crucial defense budget bill due to a lack of consensus.

The rapid advancement of AI and the absence of comprehensive federal consumer protections have prompted numerous states to establish their own guidelines. For instance, California’s SB 53 focuses on AI safety and transparency. Meanwhile, Tennessee’s ELVIS Act safeguards musicians and performers against unauthorized AI-generated deepfakes.

Industry Concerns and Lobbying Efforts

Leaders in Silicon Valley, including OpenAI President Greg Brockman and David Sacks, now serving as a White House “AI czar,” contend that state-level laws would create a complex and impractical legal landscape. They argue this would hinder innovation and jeopardize the U.S.’s competitive position against China in AI development.

Silicon Valley possesses significant lobbying power, historically blocking substantial technology regulation. Opponents of federal preemption argue that state AI laws are unlikely to “destroy AI progress,” as claimed by venture capitalists and tech firms.

Key Provisions of the Proposed Order

A leaked draft of Trump’s executive order outlines the creation of an “AI Litigation Task Force.” This task force would challenge state AI laws in court. The order also directs agencies to assess laws considered “onerous.”

Furthermore, it seeks to establish national standards through the Federal Communications Commission and Federal Trade Commission, effectively overriding state regulations. The order would also grant David Sacks considerable influence over AI policy, potentially diminishing the role of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

Criticism and Concerns

New York Assembly member Alex Bores criticized the potential order, stating it represents “a massive handout” to AI billionaires. He argues it prioritizes profits over the safety of children, public safety, and job security.

Bipartisan Opposition in Congress

Efforts to limit states’ regulatory authority over AI have faced widespread opposition in both parties. A proposal by Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) to impose a 10-year moratorium on AI legislation was overwhelmingly rejected by a vote of 99-1.

Several Republican politicians voiced concerns after the draft order was leaked. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) emphasized the importance of states retaining their right to regulate, advocating for the preservation of federalism.

State Governors Express Opposition

Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL) also expressed opposition, stating, “I oppose stripping Florida of our ability to legislate in the best interest of the people.” He warned that a ten-year moratorium would prevent Florida from enacting crucial protections for individuals, children, and families.

DeSantis has also raised concerns about the strain data centers place on power and water resources, as well as their potential impact on employment.

Arguments for State Control

Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) cautioned Trump against the executive order, advising him to “leave AI to the states” to uphold federalism and enable local protections.

Potential Harms of AI and Calls for Oversight

Concerns about the potential harms of AI are growing. Reports have linked several suicides to prolonged interactions with AI chatbots, and psychologists have observed an increase in cases of what they term “AI psychosis.”

A coalition of over 35 state attorneys general has warned Congress that overriding state AI laws could have “disastrous consequences.” More than 200 state lawmakers have also issued an open letter opposing federal preemption, citing potential setbacks to AI safety progress.

This article has been updated with comment from Alex Bores (D-NY).