California at crossroads on AI regulation
• California has historically embraced light-touch tech regulation, enabling digital innovation and leadership. But new AI bills threaten this by imposing heavy restrictions.
• During the early internet era, California and the federal government allowed tech startups freedom to innovate via regulatory forbearance. This was crucial to US digital dominance today.
• In contrast, European countries adopted more restrictive regulations on tech, stunting development of major players. Excessive rules could similarly limit AI advancement.
• Existing laws can already address potential AI harms related to consumer protection, discrimination, etc. New red tape risks hindering AI entrepreneurship.
• To lead globally on AI, California should give innovators room to experiment, avoiding preemptive, fear-based policies that could prevent the next revolution.