The Tech Policy Press Podcast How US States Are Shaping AI Policy Amid Federal Debate and Industry Pushback
Jul 13, 2025
Hayley Tsukayama, associate director at the Electronic Frontier Foundation and former Washington Post reporter, dives into the crucial role of state legislatures in shaping AI policy amidst the federal debate. They discuss the complexities of legislation concerning AI safety, deepfakes, and algorithmic discrimination. Tsukayama highlights the shift towards state-level regulations and the challenges of partisanship. The conversation also touches on consumer protection and the influence of industry lobbying on regulatory oversight, stressing the need for vigilance in these evolving discussions.
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States Favor Narrow AI Bills
- States mostly focus on narrow AI bills within specific sectors or issues rather than broad regulation.
- Notable exceptions include Colorado's comprehensive algorithmic discrimination law and New York's frontier models bill under consideration.
AI's Impact on Workers and Pricing
- States increasingly address AI's impact on workers and pricing algorithms amid growing concern.
- AI's influence on economic concerns connects with new groups engaging in tech policy dialogues.
Government AI Use as Rulemaking
- Government use of AI is framed as procurement but entails significant rulemaking effects.
- States are increasingly focusing on equitable AI use and transparency in government decision systems.