80,000 Hours Podcast

#199 – Nathan Calvin on California’s AI bill SB 1047 and its potential to shape US AI policy

36 snips
Aug 29, 2024
Nathan Calvin, Senior Policy Counsel at the Center for AI Safety Action Fund, discusses California's AI bill SB 1047 and its significance in shaping AI policy. He reveals how the bill addresses safety concerns amid fears of stifling innovation. The conversation highlights the contentious reactions from the tech community and the balance between regulatory requirements and fostering development. Calvin also emphasizes the broader implications of state-level regulation on national and global standards, showcasing the interconnectedness of local laws and industry practices.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
INSIGHT

Industry Support vs. Control

  • Critics question SB 1047's necessity, as many large AI companies claim to already follow similar internal policies.
  • They may support regulation in theory but desire control over specifics, potentially hindering nuanced, independent oversight.
INSIGHT

Slippery Slope Concerns

  • Some opponents view SB 1047 not as inherently flawed, but as a potential gateway to stifling AI development.
  • They fear a domino effect of state regulations following California's lead.
ANECDOTE

Cost and Innovation Concerns

  • Critics claim SB 1047 will stifle innovation by imposing excessive costs, potentially driving companies from California.
  • Nathan Calvin finds this implausible given the bill's modest requirements and applicability to businesses operating in California.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app