President Donald Trump is contemplating the signing of an executive order that would empower the federal government to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) more directly. As part of this initiative, a new “AI Litigation Task Force” would be established, overseen by the Attorney General, with the primary duty of challenging state laws that may interfere with the growth of the AI sector.
Details from a draft of the proposed executive order indicate that the Task Force could initiate lawsuits against states with laws perceived as obstructing AI industry development. Specifically mentioned are California’s recent AI safety regulations and Colorado’s law against algorithmic discrimination. The Task Force is expected to work with a group of White House Special Advisors, including venture capitalist David Sacks.
In recent public statements, Trump has expressed his aim to implement a moratorium on state-level AI laws, framing it as a means to combat ideological biases he associates with “woke” culture. Earlier this year, he directed various federal agencies to find ways to navigate around state regulations that he deems onerous for the AI industry’s growth.
Following the order’s signing, the Department of Commerce will be instructed to identify states that fail to comply with Trump’s AI directives and assess states’ eligibility for federal broadband funding. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) would also evaluate whether certain state requirements for AI algorithm modifications contravene laws against unfair practices.
FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr has indicated that certain interpretations of existing laws may allow the federal government to override state AI regulations. However, the authority of the FCC and the lawsuit initiatives may face legal challenges.
This executive order is being viewed as a contingency plan should Congress not pass a proposed moratorium on state AI laws as part of the reauthorization of the National Defense Authorization Act. The success of this plan depends on successfully negotiating the complex budgetary and regulatory landscape.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/ai-artificial-intelligence/824608/trump-executive-order-ai-state-laws