In a recent TechCrunch interview, Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi expressed her opposition to California’s SB 1047 bill, which aims to regulate AI technology in the state. Pelosi, along with other congresspeople from the Bay Area including Zoe Lofgren, Anna Eshoo, and Ro Khanna, raised concerns about the bill, labeling it as “well-intentioned but ill-informed” and potentially more harmful than helpful.
Pelosi emphasized the importance of California setting a precedent for AI legislation that can serve as a model for the nation and the world. She highlighted the need to enable small entrepreneurs and academia to lead in the AI space, rather than allowing big tech companies to dominate. Despite Pelosi’s strong stance against SB 1047, as a state bill, she and other members of Congress do not have official authority over its passage. However, Pelosi’s seniority and influence are likely to carry weight with California politicians.
State Senator Scott Wiener, the sponsor of SB 1047, responded to Pelosi’s criticism by stating that the bill only requires the largest AI developers to conduct basic safety testing on their AI models, a measure that these companies have committed to doing. Despite Pelosi’s objections, Wiener expressed his respect for her but maintained his disagreement with her viewpoint.
SB 1047 has faced opposition from various stakeholders in Silicon Valley, including venture capitalists, big tech trade groups, researchers, and startup founders. However, the bill was recently amended to address some of the concerns raised by critics, including AI company Anthropic. As SB 1047 moves towards a vote in California’s Assembly, the debate over AI regulation in the state continues to intensify.
Subheadings:
1. Pelosi’s Criticism of SB 1047
2. State Senator Wiener’s Response
3. Impact on California’s AI Legislation
As the conversation around AI regulation in California evolves, it remains to be seen how SB 1047 will ultimately shape the future of AI development in the state and beyond.
