New York Enacts Strict AI Safety Law, Joining California in Landmark Regulation

New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed a major AI safety bill into law this week. The legislation is called the RAISE Act. This makes New York the second U.S. state to pass comprehensive AI safety rules. The action follows California’s own law signed in September.

The law requires large AI companies to be more transparent about their work. It also creates new oversight powers for the state. According to The New York Times, the signing followed intense lobbying from the tech industry.

What the New AI Safety Law Requires from Tech Companies

The RAISE Act introduces several key mandates for developers. Companies must publicly disclose their safety testing protocols. They are also required to report any significant safety incidents to the state.

This reporting must happen within 72 hours of an incident occurring. A new office will be established within the Department of Financial Services. This office will actively monitor AI development and compliance.

Penalties for non-compliance are severe. Companies can face fines up to $1 million for violations. Repeat violations could lead to penalties as high as $3 million.

Political Battle and Industry Reactions to the Legislation

The bill’s journey was not smooth. Governor Hochul initially sought to scale back the legislation after tech industry pressure. Lawmakers agreed to make her requested changes in the next legislative session.

State Senator Andrew Gounardes, a bill sponsor, celebrated the win. He stated they passed the strongest AI safety law in the country despite opposition. Some major AI firms, like OpenAI and Anthropic, expressed support for the state-level action.

However, political pushback is already forming. A super PAC backed by prominent tech investors is targeting a bill co-sponsor. This aligns with a broader federal push to limit state AI regulations.

New York’s new AI safety law sets a powerful precedent for state-led tech regulation. It underscores a growing divide between state and federal approaches to governing artificial intelligence.

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What does the RAISE Act in New York do?

It mandates that large AI developers publish their safety protocols. They must also report serious safety incidents to the state within 72 hours. A new state office will monitor AI development for risks.

What are the penalties for violating the law?

Companies can be fined up to $1 million for failing to submit reports or making false statements. Subsequent violations can result in penalties as high as $3 million. The law establishes clear financial consequences for non-compliance.

Was there opposition to this AI safety bill?

Yes, the tech industry lobbied heavily against the original bill. Governor Hochul initially proposed scaled-back versions. A super PAC funded by tech investors is now targeting one of the bill’s sponsors.

How does this compare to California’s AI law?

Both laws create transparency and safety reporting frameworks for AI companies. Governor Hochul stated New York’s law builds on California’s framework. Together, they create a unified regulatory benchmark on the East and West coasts.

When does the New York AI law take effect?

The exact effective date is pending further procedural steps. The core bill has been signed into law by the governor. Technical amendments requested by the governor are expected to be passed next year.

Trusted Sources

This report was compiled from verified news reporting by The New York Times and official state government communications.