California is once again leading the charge in tech regulation with its latest artificial intelligence (AI) safety bill, Senate Bill (SB) 1047. This controversial piece of legislation has sparked a heated debate among major tech companies, politicians, and the entertainment industry alike.
SB 1047, introduced by State Senator Scott Wiener, aims to ensure that large AI models undergo rigorous safety tests to prevent \"catastrophic harm\" before they're released to the public. Additionally, the bill seeks to hold developers accountable for any severe damage caused by their AI creations.
Having passed the state legislature in August, the bill now rests with Governor Gavin Newsom, who has until September 30 to decide whether to sign it into law or veto it. If enacted, this could set a precedent for AI regulation across the entire United States, given California's history of pioneering new-tech legislation.
The bill has rallied strong support and fierce opposition. On the support side, Hollywood has voiced its backing, with over 120 actors and producers signing an open letter urging the governor to approve the bill. \"We fully believe in the dazzling potential of AI to be used for good. But we must also be realistic about the risks,\" the letter states.
Other supporters include the National Organization for Women and the Future of Life Institute, all of whom emphasize the need for proactive measures to mitigate AI risks.
However, the tech industry isn't having it. Giants like Google, Meta, and OpenAI, along with various tech associations, have opposed SB 1047, arguing that such regulations could stifle innovation and undermine the competitiveness of California and the U.S. in the AI sector.
Open model developers are particularly concerned, fearing that the bill could chill the open model community by imposing burdensome safety requirements.
Prominent figures like Jason Kwon, OpenAI's chief strategy officer, believe that federal government should handle AI regulation instead of individual states, warning that the bill could \"stifle innovation and harm the U.S. AI ecosystem.\"
Even some members of Congress, including former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have criticized SB 1047, labeling it as \"well-intentioned but ill-informed\" and expressing worries about its impact on small entrepreneurs and academic research.
Despite the opposition, SB 1047 has made it through California's legislature, and its future could have significant implications for the future of AI regulation in the U.S.
As the most populous state and a hub for tech innovation, California's stance on AI could influence national policies and set a standard for responsible AI development. With Governor Newsom's decision looming, all eyes are on California as it navigates the complexities of AI safety and innovation.
