Calif. Governor Vetoes AI Bill That Tech Industry Groups Opposed

Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) vetoed a controversial AI bill (SB-1047) that would have required large AI developers and those providing computing power to train AI models to implement protections preventing critical harms. “By focusing only on the most expensive and large-scale models, SB 1047 establishes a regulatory framework that could give the public a false sense of security about controlling this fast-moving technology,” wrote Newsom in his veto message Sunday. “Smaller, specialized models may emerge as equally or even more dangerous than the models targeted by SB 1047 -- at the potential expense of curtailing the very innovation that fuels advancement in favor of the public good.” The bill’s sponsor, Sen. Scott Wiener (D), responded on X: “This veto is a setback for everyone who believes in oversight of massive corporations that are making critical decisions that affect the safety and welfare of the public and the future of the planet.” Voluntary commitments aren’t enforceable, added Wiener. The bill, which was opposed by tech associations including CTA, the Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA) and the Software & Information Industry Association, could have had some indirect effects on the telecom industry (see 2409060039). Newsom signed several other bills on AI (see 2409190056). CCIA State Policy Director Khara Boender applauded Newsom "for vetoing this heavy-handed and misguided AI legislation that would have far-reaching effects, likely to impact the broader tech ecosystem, including startups."