California Governor Gavin Newsom has vetoed a contentious AI safety bill, citing concerns it might drive AI companies out of the state and stifle innovation. While proponents like Senator Scott Wiener argue the bill is crucial to safeguard the public from AI’s potential risks, Newsom highlighted its overly stringent standards and lack of focus on high-risk applications.
The bill faced opposition from tech giants such as Google, Microsoft-backed OpenAI, and Meta, but gained support from figures like Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Newsom emphasized the need for empirical, science-based assessments and announced plans to work with experts to develop better regulations. He also signed legislation requiring the state to evaluate the risks generative AI poses to critical infrastructure. Proponents worry about unchecked AI development, while critics fear stifling innovation in California’s burgeoning AI sector.
In Washington, AI regulation efforts have stalled, prompting calls for state-specific action, which Newsom suggested might be necessary if federal action remains absent. The bill’s stringent requirements, including a kill switch for advanced AI models, sparked debate between safety advocates and industry leaders concerned about California’s tech economy.
Original Story https://www.cnbc.com/2024/09/29/california-governor-vetoes-contentious-ai-safety-bill.html
Category :
Tags:
