In what could be a crucial battleground over the future of artificial intelligence regulation, New York Attorney General Letitia James is spearheading a bipartisan coalition of attorneys general opposing congress's move that might prevent states from managing their own AI laws. According to a report by the Attorney General's Office, the coalition, consisting of 36 attorneys general, is urging congress to drop proposed NDAA provisions that would handcuff state-level AI regulations.
States have been active in tackling unique AI risks, such as scams using AI-generated deepfakes or chatbots provoking harmful interactions with minors. "Every state should be able to enact and enforce its own AI regulations to protect its residents," Attorney General James stated. This call to action signals a strong pushback against potential federal preemption, as AI continues to permeate various strata of daily life, presenting both opportunities and threats, as per the Attorney General's Office.
Some of the specific incidents the coalition is responding to include AI that facilitate graphic conversations with children, and cases where AI promotes self-harm or eating disorders. Federal legislators have been considering measures within the NDAA that would restrain states from implementing or enforcing laws directed at governing AI behavior and disclosure. The proposal has sparked concern amongst state level officials who believe they are more adept at responding to the rapid technological shifts.
The coalition also points to different regulations that states have enacted or are considering, reflecting the diverse concerns across the country. For example, New York passed a law requiring AI to watch for and respond to suicidal signals in users, while other states have worked on preventing deepfakes that could mislead voters or consumer protections from AI spam. Attorney General James reinforces the need for states to retain their authority, arguing that without federal regulations in place that are just as thorough, the interests of communities could be at severe risk.
Among those joining Attorney General James's stance are attorneys general from a variety of states, including but not limited to California, Texas, and Ohio, highlighting the broad consensus across political lines on the issue.
