Gov. Gavin Newsom Vetoes Sweeping AI Safety Bill

Gov. Gavin Newsom Vetoes Sweeping AI Safety Bill

As a seasoned gamer with decades of immersion in digital worlds, I can’t help but feel a twinge of déjà vu as I navigate the complexities of real-world policy decisions surrounding AI. Governor Newsom’s veto of SB 1047 strikes me as a prudent move, one that acknowledges the nuanced nature of this emerging technology.


Governor Gavin Newsom of California has rejected SB 1047, a comprehensive legislation aimed at ensuring safety in artificial intelligence, stating that he believes there may be alternative methods more suited for addressing the impending challenges and possibilities brought about by AI.

In his explanation for rejecting the bill, Newsom pointed out that a significant number (32) of the leading AI firms reside in California, and that this legislation primarily targets the largest corporations. This could potentially undermine any safety advantages it aimed to provide.

In a letter explaining his decision to veto SB 1047, Newsom stated that the bill fails to consider if an AI system is used in high-risk settings, makes critical decisions, or handles sensitive data. Instead of focusing on stringent standards for potentially risky aspects, the bill imposes these standards on even simple functions if a large system uses them. Newsom believes this method isn’t effective at safeguarding the public from potential dangers posed by technology.

Additionally, he pointed out that he has approved numerous pieces of legislation addressing the potential dangers related to AI. For instance, just last week, he endorsed bills supported by SAG-AFTRA concerning the regulation of AI performance simulacra.

This year, various considerate suggestions for controlling AI companies have been forwarded to me by the legislature as a response to the swift changes and potential dangers – such as interference with our democratic system, the propagation of false information and deepfakes, online privacy concerns, threats to vital infrastructure, and job market disruptions. As I addressed on Sunday, these bills and administrative actions are based on values of responsibility, equality, and openness regarding AI systems and the application of AI technology in California.

SB 1047 was a contentious piece of legislation, attracting support from figures in Hollywood, such as J.J. Abrams, Jane Fonda, Pedro Pascal, Shonda Rhimes, and Mark Hamill, while facing opposition from Silicon Valley. Meanwhile, notable figures like former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi voiced dissent, advocating for federal intervention to address potential safety concerns.

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2024-09-30 04:24