California’s proposed AI safety law, SB 1047, has become a lightning rod for debate, pitting Silicon Valley giants against Hollywood stars and lawmakers. With Governor Gavin Newsom’s deadline to sign or veto looming on September 30, the bill could redefine how AI is regulated in the U.S.
What’s in the Bill?
The legislation requires rigorous safety testing for large AI models to prevent \"catastrophic harm\" and holds developers accountable for damages. Supporters argue it’s a necessary shield against unchecked AI risks, while critics call it an innovation killer.
Hollywood Backs Safety Measures
Over 120 actors and producers, including SAG-AFTRA members, signed an open letter urging Newsom to sign the bill. \"AI’s potential is dazzling, but we can’t ignore the risks,\" they stated, referencing concerns like deepfakes and AI replicas disrupting creative industries.
Tech Industry Pushes Back
Google, Meta, and OpenAI warn the bill could stifle U.S. competitiveness. OpenAI’s Jason Kwon called for federal instead of state-led rules, claiming SB 1047 might \"harm the AI ecosystem.\" Startups fear liability rules could crush open-source projects.
What’s Next?
With Newsom’s decision pending, the outcome could set a blueprint for national AI policy. California has already passed eight AI laws this year, targeting election deepfakes and actor protections. Will this controversial bill join them? The clock is ticking.
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