Governor Newsom on California AI bill SB 1047: ‘I can’t solve for everything’
TechCrunchOCT 1 2024
California Governor Vetoes AI Safety Bill
Above: Gavin Newsom speaks to reporters in the spin room following the presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris on Sept. 10, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Image copyright: Chip Somodevilla/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty images
The Spin
Narrative A
This bill risked stifling innovation, particularly among smaller AI companies and open-source developers. It focused on hypothetical risks rather than practical, targeted safety solutions. Newsom's decision preserves California's leadership in AI by promoting a more balanced, science-based approach to regulation that supports innovation while effectively addressing safety concerns.
Narrative B
Newsom has retreated from a crucial first step toward meaningful regulation of potentially dangerous AI technologies. SB 1047 sought to regulate AI to prevent catastrophic harm while encouraging responsible development. Newsom's veto is a missed opportunity, compromising proactive governance and preserving the status quo.