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yesterday

Senate Republicans Split on 10-Year Moratorium on State AI Regulation

Key GOP senators are drafting amendments to strip the AI freeze, leaving its fate in the reconciliation package uncertain.

FILE PHOTO: Figurines with computers and smartphones are seen in front of the words "Artificial Intelligence AI" in this illustration taken, February 19, 2024. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo
Apple iPhone screen with icons of AI apps.
Image
California lawmakers are proposing regulations to protect people and society from the unintended consequences of artificial intelligence. By contrast, the Trump administration wants to avoid excessive regulation. Illustration by Gabriel Hongsdusit, CalMatters

Overview

  • The Senate parliamentarian ruled that Sen. Ted Cruz’s provision, which links federal broadband grants to a 10-year moratorium on state AI regulation, can be included in the budget reconciliation bill.
  • Major tech companies including Amazon, Google, Microsoft and Meta have lobbied Senate leaders to enact the moratorium to prevent a patchwork of state AI laws.
  • Senators Marsha Blackburn and Josh Hawley plan to offer amendments on the Senate floor aimed at eliminating or modifying the AI regulation freeze.
  • A bipartisan coalition of state lawmakers has urged Congressional leaders to reject the provision, warning it would undermine consumer protections and disrupt critical infrastructure investments.
  • Senate Majority Leader John Thune expects some version of the AI freeze to remain in the bill but says member feedback may lead to further changes before final passage.