Trump Administration Might Leverage Federal Agencies Against State AI Rules

Trump Administration May Use Federal Agencies to Fight State-Level AI Regulation

The Trump administration has taken a significant step towards centralizing authority over artificial intelligence by drafting an executive order aimed at blocking states from instituting their own AI regulations. According to a draft document obtained by Politico, this initiative includes the creation of an “AI Litigation Task Force” managed by the Department of Justice. Such a move indicates a clear intent from the president to prioritize federal oversight in the domain of AI, diverging from traditional federalism.

This summer, the administration unveiled its AI Action Plan, which suggested that no federal funds related to AI should be allocated to states with stringent AI regulations. Although it acknowledged the need for states to pass sensible laws that do not stifle innovation, recent actions have suggested otherwise. For instance, Senator Ted Cruz attempted to insert a 10-year moratorium on state-level AI regulations into a significant legislative bill, which faced overwhelming opposition in the Senate, culminating in a 99-1 vote against it.

The debate is intensifying, especially after the president expressed concerns on social media about “overregulation by the states” harming the U.S. economy, coining the term “Woke AI.” Meanwhile, Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene advocated for preserving states’ rights and opposing any federal moratorium.

As reported by Politico, the administration may attempt to reintroduce regulation moratoriums in the upcoming year-end defense bill. The belief that varied regulations could hinder the U.S. in achieving global AI leadership may drive these federal efforts.

In light of these developments, how do you feel about the federal government’s approach to regulating AI at the state level? Share your thoughts below!