State lawmakers from across the United States are urging Congress to reject a proposed 10-year moratorium on state-level regulations governing artificial intelligence (AI). This bipartisan appeal is highlighted in a letter signed by 260 lawmakers, representing both major political parties and including members from all 50 states. The letter was shared ahead of its publication, coinciding with Senate discussions on a major tax and immigration bill championed by President Donald Trump.
The moratorium, passed by the House of Representatives in May, aims to create uniform regulations for AI to prevent a “patchwork” of state laws that critics argue could hinder U.S. tech companies in the global market, particularly in competition with entities in China. However, state lawmakers contend that this freeze would limit their capacity to safeguard the public against emerging digital threats, including AI-generated scams and challenges in an AI-driven economy.
In their letter, the lawmakers articulated several points:
1. States should function as “laboratories of democracy,” crafting innovative legislation that can inform federal policies.
2. State and local governments can respond more swiftly to urgent issues compared to the federal Congress.
3. The moratorium would not only halt new legislation but also affect existing laws already passed in various states.
Bipartisan cooperation is evident, as lawmakers share concerns about both innovation and the need for regulatory practices that adapt to the rapid advancements of AI technologies. Notably, South Carolina state Rep. Brandon Guffey (R), who is among the letter’s authors, emphasized the importance of allowing states to protect their residents rights, reinforcing that the intent is not to suppress innovation.
As discussions evolve in the Senate, the fate of the moratorium may depend on compliance with procedural rules. Some Republican leaders may seek to reintroduce the AI regulation issues separately if they are not included in the larger bill.
In response to the lawmakers’ concerns, Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-California) highlighted the necessity of a national regulatory framework while expressing hopes that Congress would introduce a consensus-driven approach that balances state and federal interests.
The push from state lawmakers illustrates significant opposition to a one-size-fits-all moratorium, indicating that the debate over AI regulation is far from over and may see continued contention as policy evolves. This situation exemplifies the complexities of governing emerging technologies and the essential role of diverse voices in policymaking during such transformative times.