Can the US actually regulate AI? Well, it’s a bit of a mixed bag at the moment. While there have been some wins in recent months, there have also been some setbacks, showing just how tricky it is to put the brakes on this cutting-edge tech.
### State-level Progress and Challenges
In March, Tennessee made waves as the first state to protect voice artists from unauthorized AI cloning. This summer, Colorado took a risk-based approach to AI policy. And California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bunch of AI-related safety bills in September, including ones that require companies to spill the beans on how they train their AI.
But, when it comes to federal AI policy, the US is still playing catch-up to the EU. Even at the state level, regulations are hitting some major roadblocks.
### The Battle of AI Laws in California
Governor Newsom vetoed a bill that would have imposed strict safety and transparency rules on AI companies. Another bill aiming to tackle AI deepfakes on social media was put on hold due to a lawsuit.
Despite these challenges, there’s a glimmer of hope. Jessica Newman, from the AI Policy Hub at UC Berkeley, believes that existing federal laws can actually be applied to AI, offering a little bit of regulation in the Wild West of tech.
### Federal Efforts and Industry Pushback
President Joe Biden signed an AI Executive Order last year, nudging AI companies towards transparency and best practices. This led to the birth of the US AI Safety Institute (AISI), a research body studying AI risks.
But, the AISI’s future is uncertain, with calls for Congress to solidify its place in the AI regulatory landscape.
### The Road Ahead
Despite setbacks and industry pushback, there’s still hope for comprehensive AI regulation in the US. Lawmakers like State Senator Scott Wiener are optimistic that broad AI regulation will eventually come to fruition.
As the debate rages on about the risks and benefits of AI, one thing is clear: the US is on a bumpy road towards regulating this groundbreaking technology. But with pressure mounting to create a cohesive national framework, the future of AI regulation in America looks promising.
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