A proposed measure in President Donald Trump’s domestic policy bill could prevent states from enforcing regulations related to artificial intelligence for the next ten years. This proposal is causing concern among some tech industry observers. As AI becomes more integrated into various aspects of life, such as healthcare and employment, it brings both potential benefits and significant risks.
Currently, there is no comprehensive federal law governing AI, although Trump has signed the Take It Down Act to criminalize sharing non-consensual explicit images created by AI. Some states have enacted their own AI laws targeting issues like deepfakes in elections and discrimination in hiring practices.
If the Senate Republicans’ version of this bill passes, state-level AI regulations might become unenforceable. The provision has sparked opposition from academics, tech workers, advocacy groups, and some lawmakers who are concerned about its implications.
North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson is among a bipartisan group of 40 attorneys general opposing the moratorium. “Years from now, it could end up being the big story out of this reconciliation bill,” Jackson stated in an interview with CNN.
Jackson expressed concerns that the moratorium would nullify consumer and voter protections established by several states against abusive AI use. He emphasized that without these protections, AI could be misused by bad actors over the next decade.
Jackson highlighted existing state laws focused on voter protection and consumer safety. He warned against a future where there is no legal recourse against deepfakes intended to deceive millions of voters.
In North Carolina specifically, Jackson fears losing enforcement abilities over certain criminal-related laws if the moratorium passes. He also doubts Congress will implement effective national safeguards for AI use.
“My main concern here…is that I don’t think Congress is going to put up any safeguards,” he remarked, citing past failures in regulating internet privacy and social media.
The attorney general noted that while there may be arguments about avoiding over-regulation of emerging technologies like AI due to economic concerns, doing nothing for a decade poses a significant risk as well.
