Silicon Valley Pushes Back Against California AI Bill in 2023
- Senate Bill 1047, which requires safety tests and liability for AI developers, passed the California Senate with strong support.
- Silicon Valley is lobbying Governor Newsom to veto the bill, citing concerns that it may drive companies out of the state.
- Despite opposition, polling indicates significant public support for the bill, reflecting a complex landscape of opinions on AI regulation.
In 2023, California's Senate Bill 1047, which mandates safety tests and liability for AI developers, gained significant legislative support, passing the Senate with 32 votes in favor. However, opposition from Silicon Valley intensified, with lobbying efforts aimed at persuading Governor Gavin Newsom to veto the bill. Critics argue that the bill's regulations could drive companies out of California, although many leading AI firms have already committed to voluntary safety measures. Polling data shows mixed public sentiment, with a Chamber of Commerce poll indicating 46% opposition, while other surveys reveal higher support for the bill. The lobbying efforts are further complicated by financial ties between lawmakers and AI companies, raising concerns about the influence of corporate donations on legislative decisions. As the bill moves forward, the tech industry’s resistance highlights a broader debate over the balance between innovation and safety in AI development.