"Newsom's Tech Ties Face AI-Driven Scrutiny in California Legislature"

California Lawmakers Pass Landmark AI Safety Bill, Giving Newsom Second Chance to Sign In a significant shift in the tech industry's stance on AI regulation, California lawmakers passed Senate Bill 53 on Saturday, requiring AI companies to submit to new safety tests and provide transparency into their processes. The bill, which now awaits Governor Gavin Newsom's signature, marks a crucial step towards establishing safeguards for the development and operation of advanced AI models. According to Gizmodo, at least part of the tech industry has given its support to the bill, which was previously vetoed by Newsom last year. Senate Bill 53 would require companies to disclose safety incidents and risk evaluations, addressing concerns over the potential harms of AI on society. The legislation is seen as a major victory for lawmakers who have been pushing for stricter regulations on the tech industry. The bill's passage comes after a tumultuous year for Newsom, who vetoed a similar bill last year that would have established robust safety guidelines for AI development and operation. According to Gizmodo, the new bill has garnered significant support from lawmakers, with many seeing it as a necessary step towards mitigating the risks associated with advanced AI. "This is a critical moment in the history of AI regulation," said Senator Maria Elena Durazo, one of the bill's co-authors. "We have seen the devastating consequences of unregulated AI development, and it's time for us to take action." The bill's requirements include submitting to new safety tests and providing transparency into AI processes. Companies would also be required to disclose safety incidents and risk evaluations, giving lawmakers and regulators a clearer understanding of the potential risks associated with AI. While some tech companies have expressed support for the bill, others remain opposed. According to Gizmodo, major players in the industry have been divided on the issue, with some seeing it as an overreach by government regulators. The passage of Senate Bill 53 marks a significant shift in the tech industry's stance on AI regulation. With at least part of the industry giving its support, lawmakers are hopeful that Newsom will sign the bill into law. "We believe that this bill is a crucial step towards establishing safeguards for the development and operation of advanced AI models," said Senator Durazo. "We urge Governor Newsom to sign it into law and take action on this critical issue." The fate of Senate Bill 53 now rests with Newsom, who has until October 13th to sign or veto the bill. If signed, the legislation would establish crucial safeguards for the development and operation of advanced AI models in California. As the tech industry continues to grapple with the potential risks associated with AI, lawmakers are hopeful that Senate Bill 53 will serve as a model for other states to follow. With the passage of this landmark legislation, California is taking a significant step towards mitigating the risks associated with advanced AI and ensuring public safety. Sources: Gizmodo: "California Lawmakers Once Again Challenge Newsom's Tech Ties with AI Bill" Gizmodo: "California Lawmakers Take Aim at Newsom's Tech Ties with Landmark AI Safety Bill" This story was compiled from reports by Gizmodo and Gizmodo.