California Legislators to Vote on Bill Regulating AI Development - What You Need to Know
By Greg Bensinger
California legislators are gearing up to vote on a bill, known as SB 1047, that would regulate the development and deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) in the state. Despite opposition from tech giants, the bill has gained momentum. Here's a breakdown of what the bill entails and why it has sparked controversy.
What Does the Bill Do?
Proposed by State Senator Scott Wiener, SB 1047 would require safety testing for advanced AI models that cost over $100 million to develop or require a certain level of computing power. Developers would need to include a kill switch to turn off AI models if needed. The bill also grants the state attorney general the power to take legal action against non-compliant developers, especially in cases where the AI poses a threat to critical systems like the power grid. Additionally, developers would be required to hire third-party auditors to assess safety practices and protect whistleblowers.
Lawmakers' Response
SB 1047 has already passed the state Senate and is now up for a vote in the state Assembly. While Wiener argues that the legislation is crucial to safeguard the public from potential AI dangers, some California Congressional Democrats, including Nancy Pelosi and Ro Khanna, have opposed the bill, warning of unintended consequences.
Tech Leaders' Stand
Tech companies developing AI have raised concerns about the risks associated with AI deployment, such as cyberattacks. While many support the idea of regulations, they have pushed back against SB 1047. Wiener revised the bill to address some of the tech industry's concerns, garnering support from companies like Amazon and Alphabet. However, some firms, including Google and Meta, remain critical of the bill, fearing it could stifle innovation and drive developers away from the state.
Analysis
In essence, SB 1047 aims to set guidelines for the safe development and deployment of AI in California. While the bill has divided opinions among lawmakers and tech leaders, its ultimate goal is to protect the public from potential AI risks. By requiring safety testing, oversight, and whistleblower protections, the bill seeks to strike a balance between fostering innovation and ensuring the responsible use of AI technology. The outcome of the vote on SB 1047 could have far-reaching implications for the future of AI development in California and beyond.