House Proposes 10-Year Ban on State AI Regulation

A controversial provision in a large tax and spending bill passed by the House proposes a 10-year moratorium on state laws regulating artificial intelligence (AI), preventing states from adopting or enforcing AI regulations during this period. Proponents, largely House Republicans, argue that a uniform federal approach is needed to avoid a confusing patchwork of state laws that could hinder innovation and burden businesses operating across multiple states. They emphasize the need to maintain U.S. global leadership in AI and suggest this moratorium will allow Congress time to develop a comprehensive federal framework. However, critics, including bipartisan Pennsylvania officials, state attorneys general, civil rights groups, and legal experts, contend that the ban is overly broad, likely unconstitutional, and harmful, as it would stifle necessary oversight, consumer protections, and state-level innovation in AI regulation. The moratorium would also block enforcement of existing state AI laws, raising concerns about unchecked AI development and potential harms, such as misuse of creative works without recourse. This debate reflects a broader struggle between fostering AI innovation and ensuring safety, fairness, and accountability amid rapidly evolving technology and the absence of centralized federal AI regulation.