California Governor Gavin Newsom has vetoed Senate Bill 1047, the Safe and Secure Innovation for Frontier Artificial Models Act. In his veto message, Newsom expressed concerns that the bill’s regulatory framework might create a false sense of security regarding the control of rapidly evolving AI technology.
California Governor Gavin Newsom speaking at a lecturn.
Newsom’s Rationale for the Veto
Newsom argued that SB 1047 wasn’t the optimal approach to safeguarding the public from genuine AI threats. The bill mandated that developers of large AI models adhere to specific requirements before commencing initial training. These included implementing immediate shutdown capabilities and establishing comprehensive safety and security protocols.
Newsom pointed out that California houses 32 of the top 50 AI companies, and SB 1047 would primarily affect these larger firms. He warned that smaller, specialized AI models, not targeted by the bill, could pose equal or greater risks. He also criticized the bill for applying stringent standards to even basic functions of large AI systems, regardless of their deployment in high-risk environments or involvement in critical decision-making.
Industry Reactions and Debate
SB 1047 ignited significant debate within the AI industry during its legislative journey. OpenAI strongly opposed the measure, leading to the public resignation of researchers William Saunders and Daniel Kokotajlo in protest. Conversely, xAI CEO Elon Musk voiced support for the bill. The bill also garnered support from many Hollywood figures, including J.J. Abrams, Jane Fonda, Pedro Pascal, Shonda Rhimes, and Mark Hamill.
Newsom’s Commitment to AI Safety
Despite the veto, Newsom emphasized the importance of proactive measures to protect the public from potential AI harms. He stressed the need for safety protocols, guardrails, and enforceable consequences for bad actors. He acknowledged the necessity for any regulatory framework to keep pace with the rapid advancements in AI technology.
Recent AI Legislation in California
Newsom’s veto follows his recent signing of Assembly Bills 2602 and 1836, both supported by the SAG-AFTRA union. AB 2602 mandates informed consent from performers before using their digital replicas, while AB 1836 strengthens protections against the unauthorized use of deceased performers’ voices and likenesses.
Looking Ahead
The veto of SB 1047 signals the ongoing challenge of regulating AI in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. While Newsom’s veto message highlights his concerns about the bill’s approach, it also underscores his commitment to finding effective strategies for ensuring AI safety and public protection. The debate over AI regulation is likely to continue as lawmakers and industry stakeholders grapple with balancing innovation and responsible development.
