California Governor Gavin Newsom has vetoed a pioneering bill that aimed to establish safety regulations for large artificial intelligence (AI) models. The decision is seen as a significant setback for those advocating for stricter oversight of the rapidly advancing AI industry.
The proposed legislation, known as SB 1047, sought to introduce some of the first AI regulations in the U.S., requiring companies to test their AI models and disclose safety measures. These efforts were designed to address potential risks, such as threats to critical infrastructure or the misuse of AI in creating dangerous technologies. However, Newsom argued that the bill’s requirements were overly broad and could hinder innovation within the tech sector.
In a statement, Newsom emphasized that the bill did not distinguish between AI systems used in high-risk environments and those serving simpler functions. “While well-intentioned, SB 1047 applies stringent standards to basic AI functions, which could stifle progress in a vital industry,” he said.
Instead of imposing the legislation, Newsom announced plans to collaborate with AI experts, including renowned researcher Fei-Fei Li, to develop more practical guidelines for AI safety. The governor aims to create a balanced approach that maintains California’s leadership in the tech industry while addressing public concerns about AI misuse.
Proponents of the vetoed bill argued that it was a necessary step to ensure transparency and accountability in the development of AI models. They pointed to the rapid growth of the industry and the potential risks associated with powerful AI systems, including job displacement, misinformation, and privacy violations. The legislation gained support from high-profile figures such as Elon Musk and the AI research company Anthropic.
Despite this support, the bill faced fierce opposition from tech giants, startups, and several Democratic lawmakers. Critics, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, argued that the bill could harm California’s tech sector by discouraging investment in AI and stifling innovation.
Newsom’s decision is part of a broader effort to balance regulation with technological advancement. Earlier this year, the governor signed laws targeting election deepfakes and protecting Hollywood workers from unauthorized AI use. He has also promoted partnerships with companies like Nvidia to advance AI education and training programs in California.
Though this specific bill has been vetoed, experts suggest that similar legislation could appear in other states, potentially reshaping the regulatory landscape for AI across the U.S.