Trump Administration’s Push for a National AI Policy Framework
The Trump administration has decided that having one cook in the kitchen is better than having 50 when it comes to regulating artificial intelligence (AI). In December, an executive order was issued that appears to undermine state-specific AI regulations in favor of a more unified national policy framework.
Concerns Over State Regulation
The administration argues that excessive state regulation hinders innovation and claims that state laws are increasingly compelling entities to embed ideological bias into their AI models. The order raises significant questions about the balance between federal oversight and state autonomy in regulating this rapidly evolving technology.
Implications for IT Companies
Jonathan Walter, a senior policy counsel with The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, warns that companies should not disregard existing state laws despite the new executive order. “I don’t think this executive order has any substantive impact on companies building or using AI; they should still be expected to follow state and local AI laws,” he stated. “They have a legal obligation to do so in the states they operate in.”
Walter anticipates that states will continue to enforce their AI laws, as the administration’s efforts to secure a moratorium through Congress have largely failed.
Insights from the AI Industry
Dhruv Patel, CEO and co-founder of Syncurrent, an AI platform provider for small governments, emphasized the importance of adhering to state laws. “Our responsibility is to the 90,000 units of local government across the country,” he said. “If the state were to implement burdensome regulations, we wouldn’t limit development, but we also wouldn’t break the law.”
Patel encourages other AI companies to stay informed and understand the varying levels of restrictiveness in state AI policies. “AI is one of the most powerful technologies that we’re entering into,” he noted. “There will continue to be a tremendous need for professionals in the space across development, cybersecurity, and infrastructure.”
He advises not to be intimidated by the regulatory landscape, stressing that education and awareness are key to navigating the evolving field of AI.
