Slate News What Next: TBD | How A.I. Lost (and Won) the Big Beautiful Debate
Jul 6, 2025
Will Oremus, a technology news analysis writer for the Washington Post, dives into the unpredictable world of AI legislation. He discusses how a critical moratorium on state AI regulations was dropped from a key policy bill yet still receives robust industry backing. Oremus highlights the ongoing clash between federal and state regulations, the evolving landscape of AI funding, and the tension between innovation and public safety in U.S. policy, all set against a backdrop of shifting political dynamics.
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AI Moratorium on State Laws
- Congress debated a 10-year moratorium stopping states from regulating AI to avoid a patchwork of laws.
- The tech industry pushed heavily for this to ease compliance and promote innovation nationally.
States Leading on AI Regulation
- States have already passed thoughtful AI laws addressing bias, election security, and consumer harm.
- Many oppose the moratorium because it would block new laws and stop enforcement of existing ones.
Complex Bipartisan Divides on AI
- AI regulation has bipartisan tensions cutting across traditional party lines focusing on moderates against left-right coalitions.
- Issues like child safety, free speech, and national security create complex divides beyond Republican versus Democrat.