New York Governor Seeks to Align AI Regulations with California
Albany, NY – – New York Governor Kathy Hochul is reportedly working to revise a proposed artificial intelligence bill to more closely mirror legislation recently enacted in California, according to sources familiar with the ongoing negotiations.
The shift in approach comes amid lobbying efforts from tech companies who argue that the original New York bill, the Responsible AI Safety and Education Act (RAISE Act), contained language that could stifle innovation. These companies reportedly expressed concerns about a provision that would have prevented the deployment of new AI models if they were deemed to create an “unreasonable risk of critical harm.”
Both the California law and the RAISE Act, in its initial form, require developers to disclose safety information and outline the steps they’ve taken to mitigate potential risks associated with their AI models. These risks include the potential for AI to be used in the development of biological weapons or to facilitate large-scale fraud.
Governor Hochul’s willingness to consider changes to the RAISE Act reflects a balancing act between the demands of the tech industry and the concerns of advocates who believe stronger regulations are needed to address the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Parents and consumer advocates have reportedly urged the governor to maintain a firm stance, arguing that the current environment surrounding AI development is largely unregulated.
The deliberations surrounding the New York bill were further complicated by a recent executive order issued by President Donald Trump, which seeks to preempt state-level regulation of AI. The implications of this order for New York’s efforts remain unclear, but it adds another layer of complexity to an already challenging legislative process.
The move to align New York’s AI regulations with California’s comes as both states are also engaged in significant redistricting efforts. According to reports, California and New York are preparing to redraw congressional lines, potentially altering the political landscape ahead of the 2026 and 2028 elections. This process is seen by some as an attempt by Democrats to counter the influence of the Republican Party in Texas.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has signaled his commitment to moving forward with the redistricting process. The timing of these developments – the softening of New York’s AI bill and the impending redistricting efforts – suggests a coordinated strategy by Democratic leaders in both states to shape the political and technological future.
The governor is expected to sign the AI safety law soon, establishing New York’s first guardrails for tech industry heavyweights. The final form of the legislation will be closely watched by AI developers, policymakers and advocates alike, as it could set a precedent for future AI regulation across the country.
