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California First: Governor Newsom Signs Nation's First AI Safety Law

California sets a new standard for AI regulation. The law balances public protection with AI progress, but federal lawmakers are already discussing a potential override.

In this image we can see a blue color board on which we can see some text, we can stop board,...
In this image we can see a blue color board on which we can see some text, we can stop board, caution boards, poles, wires, creepers, trees, vehicle moving on road and the blue sky with clouds in the background.

California First: Governor Newsom Signs Nation's First AI Safety Law

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed SB 53 into law, making it the nation's first comprehensive AI safety and transparency bill. The law, which has sparked less intense reaction than last year's vetoed SB 1047, aims to balance public protection with AI progress.

SB 53 mandates that large AI developers disclose their safety and security practices to prevent catastrophic risks, such as cyberattacks and misuse of AI for biological threats. The Office of Emergency Services will oversee compliance. Unlike some fears, the law is more about accountability than creating new burdens, as many companies already engage in these practices.

Adam Billen of Encode AI praises SB 53, stating it achieves a balance between protecting the public and supporting AI progress. Meanwhile, Senator Ted Cruz has introduced the SANDBOX Act, allowing AI firms to apply for federal rule exemptions for up to ten years.

While industry leaders continue to argue that regulation threatens U.S. competitiveness, especially against China, lawmakers are now discussing a new federal AI standard that could override state laws like SB 53. The future of AI regulation in the U.S. remains a topic of active debate.

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