Trump Unveils Executive Order to Streamline AI Regulation and Override State Laws

United States President Donald Trump announces an executive order aimed at creating a 'one rulebook' for artificial intelligence (AI) development, bypassing state-level approvals. The move, shared on his Truth Social account, underscores the administration's push to streamline AI regulations and maintain the country's leadership in the field.

"There must be only One Rulebook if we are going to continue to lead in AI," Trump states, emphasizing the need for a unified approach. He argues that the current system, with 50 different states potentially imposing their own rules, could stifle AI innovation. "AI WILL BE DESTROYED IN ITS INFANCY!" he adds, using his characteristic all-caps style to underscore his urgency.

Executive Order Details and Reactions

The executive order, dubbed the 'one-rule executive order,' is designed to override state-level approvals and create a single, federal framework for AI. However, the legality of such an action remains uncertain. The White House has also been pushing for provisions to establish a federal AI framework in this year's defense budget, further dividing members of the Republican Party.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, once a staunch supporter of Trump, opposes the move. "States must retain the right to regulate and make laws on AI and anything else for the benefit of their state," she writes, highlighting the traditional Republican stance on state rights and limited federal intervention.

State Lawmakers Push Back

State lawmakers across the political spectrum have expressed concerns about the potential federal preemption of state AI laws. In a letter to Congress, they argue that state-level measures, which aim to enhance consumer transparency, protect patients, and support artists and creators, are essential. "A federal preemption measure on state AI laws risks sweeping these protections aside and leaving communities exposed," they caution.

Industry Context and Implications

Since taking office, Trump has maintained close ties with AI and tech leaders, signing an executive order to remove barriers to AI innovation and launching the 'Genesis Mission' to harness AI for scientific breakthroughs. The Genesis Mission, compared by Trump to the Manhattan Project, aims to accelerate AI advancements and ensure the U.S. remains at the forefront of the technology.

The new executive order is likely to face legal challenges and significant political opposition, as it directly confronts the balance between federal and state powers. The future of AI regulation in the U.S. remains a contentious issue, with both supporters and critics voicing strong opinions on the best path forward.

References

• Trump to sign ‘one-rule’ executive order on AI to bypass US state approvals | Donald Trump News | Al Jazeera