California Governor Vetoes Controversial AI Safety Bill Amid Industry Concerns

California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed a contentious artificial intelligence safety bill on September 29, after significant pushback from the tech industry, which argued that the legislation could stifle innovation and drive AI companies out of the state, CNN reported yesterday.

Newsom emphasized the need for a science-based approach to AI regulation, stating he would collaborate with experts to create effective safety measures.

The bill, authored by Democratic State Senator Scott Wiener, aimed to establish safety protocols for advanced AI systems, including mandatory testing and a state oversight entity for “Frontier Models.” Wiener criticized the veto, arguing it leaves the public unprotected against potentially dangerous AI technologies.

Despite the veto, Newsom indicated his intention to work with the legislature on future AI legislation, especially in light of stalled federal efforts. The tech coalition Chamber of Progress welcomed the decision, highlighting the importance of competition and innovation in California’s tech economy.

In addition to the veto, Newsom signed a separate measure to assess the risks posed by Generative AI to California’s critical infrastructure, signaling ongoing concerns about the technology’s impact.