New York Governor Kathy Hochul signs RAISE Act to regulate AI safety

Governor Kathy Hochul has officially signed the RAISE Act, positioning New York as the second state in the U.S. to pass significant legislation focused on AI safety. The bill, initially passed by state lawmakers in June, faced pressures from the tech industry that led to proposed revisions. However, Hochul agreed to endorse the original version of the legislation, with plans to implement her suggested modifications in the following year.

Key Provisions of the RAISE Act

• Large AI developers must publicly disclose their safety protocols.
• Companies are required to report any AI safety incidents to the state within 72 hours.
• A new office within the Department of Financial Services will be established to monitor AI development.
• Violations of reporting or falsification can result in fines up to $1 million, increasing to $3 million for repeat offenses.

Context and Industry Reactions

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a similar AI safety law in September, which Hochul cited as a foundational framework for New York’s legislation. State Senator Andrew Gounardes, a sponsor of the bill, emphasized its strength despite opposition from major technology companies.

Major AI firms like OpenAI and Anthropic have expressed support for New York’s legislation while calling for comprehensive federal regulations. Anthropic’s external affairs head highlighted the importance of state-level transparency laws and urged Congress to build on these efforts.

Opposition and Political Dynamics

Not all industry voices are in favor. A super PAC linked to Andreessen Horowitz and OpenAI’s president is actively opposing Assemblyman Alex Bores, a co-sponsor of the act. Additionally, a recent executive order by President Donald Trump aims to challenge state-level AI laws, attempting to centralize AI regulation and limit state involvement, though this is expected to face legal challenges.

Looking Ahead

The RAISE Act marks a pivotal step in state-led AI governance as federal agencies have yet to implement similar regulations. New York is now part of a growing movement among leading technology states to establish clear standards ensuring AI safety and transparency.

For more details, visit the original article on TechCrunch.