OPINION:
Some politicians, supported by leaders in Big Tech or finance, are considering amending the National Defense Authorization Act to include a clause banning states from regulating artificial intelligence for several years. This preemption of states’ authority to protect their residents is a terrible idea.
Big Tech companies are already barely constrained by federal rules, and if they do not have to follow state rules, there is little check on their power at all. AI can be a tool used for the good of humanity and can benefit our country’s security, but it is now more of a risk — both for America and the world — than a benefit. It is often used as a tool for cheating or addicting people, and it wastes enormous amounts of electricity and water.
AI’s misuse, whether accidental or intentional, is also an increasing national security and biosecurity risk.
I urge Congress not to support preemption of state-level AI regulations. Big Tech leaders may be willing to move fast and break things — including our economy, our resource grid, what’s left of our privacy, and occasionally children’s safety and minds — in the pursuit of what they think will be a better world, but they should not be absolved of responsibility for it.
JOHN DZIAK
Old Forge, Pennsylvania
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