tech
April 3, 2026
California cements its role as the national testing ground for AI rules
To see where AI policy is going in the U.S., look west.
TL;DR
- California is significantly increasing its regulation of AI on multiple fronts.
- The state's regulatory approach is likely to establish a de facto national standard for AI companies in the U.S.
- Governor Gavin Newsom signed an AI executive order and state legislators are advancing AI bills.
- California's actions contrast with the White House's push for a preemptive national AI standard.
- Newsom's executive order aims to raise standards for AI companies doing business with the state, particularly in procurement.
- The state will develop contracting best practices requiring explanations on illegal content distribution, model bias, and civil rights violations.
- California lawmakers are also introducing a bill to protect minors from AI chatbots.
- While the executive order may lack strong legal teeth, its influence on company policies is expected due to California's economic significance.
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