The Teamsters president is urging Congress to reject a proposed 10-year moratorium on state artificial intelligence (AI) laws, according to a recent report by Reuters. This moratorium, included in a House committee budget bill, would prohibit states from enforcing laws regulating AI systems until 2035. Critics argue that the moratorium would limit state oversight and preempt state laws that protect consumers from potential AI harms, such as deception, exploitation, and harassment.
A group of 40 bipartisan attorneys general, co-led by Attorney General Phil Weiser, have expressed opposition to the moratorium, arguing that it would prevent states from protecting consumers and would strip away essential state protections without replacing them with a viable federal regulatory framework. The National Conference of State Legislatures has also urged Congress to oppose the AI moratorium, citing concerns about states' authority to regulate AI and the potential impact on local communities.
The moratorium would create regulatory uncertainty, potentially disrupting state-led initiatives and investments in AI development. It also raises questions about the balance of power between federal and state governments in regulating AI. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether Congress will adopt the moratorium or allow states to maintain their regulatory authority over AI.
