California Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed measures intended to protect workers from risks associated with artificial intelligence, including possible job losses and workplace surveillance.
The Democratic governor also issued an executive order directing state agencies to continue using the term “artificial intelligence”. The order contrasts with “super intelligence”, a term President Donald Trump recently directed US diplomats to use.
“AI should expand opportunity - not come at the expense of workers and families,” Newsom said in a statement. “As this technology reshapes the workplace, California is putting people at the centre.”
New rules for AI oversight
one law signed this month requires operators of AI chatbots to carry out risk assessments before introducing them. Newsom also signed an executive order requiring California to consult experts as it works to strengthen oversight of the industry.
The governor argued that the state must take further action because of what he described as a lack of federal leadership. He said he was leaving open the possibility of calling lawmakers back for a special session focused on the issue.
Newsom criticised Trump during an hourlong event with reporters, saying the federal government had not passed comprehensive AI regulations even as industry leaders warned about the technology's risks. Trump said top technology leaders had signed a voluntary agreement to “self-police” AI development.
The announcements came on Newsom's final day to sign or veto bills before he leaves office in January. They also came weeks before midterm elections that will determine control of Congress.
Election and presidential questions
Newsom became involved early in the election fight by leading Democrats in a redistricting campaign intended to improve their chances of winning more House seats. He said the consequences would be serious if his party failed to succeed in November.
“There will not be a free and fair election in 2028 unless we take back the House of Representatives,” Newsom said.
Asked whether he had set a deadline for deciding if he would seek the presidency in 2028, Newsom said, “that moment will arrive when it arrives.” Former Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris, who also comes from the San Francisco Bay Area, has said she is considering a run. Newsom recently told CNN he would not run if Harris entered the race, and said they had not spoken since that interview aired.
Tax proposal and gubernatorial debate
Newsom also addressed a proposal to temporarily raise taxes on billionaires that will appear on the November ballot. He has consistently opposed the measure but said he respected supporters including Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, who are focused on income inequality.
“He's spot on about the balance between the rich and the poor,” Newsom said. “On this issue, we fundamentally disagree.”
His comments came hours before a gubernatorial debate between Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton. Newsom said he would not watch it.
Conclusion
Newsom's actions put worker protections and state oversight at the centre of California's response to AI risks, while his remarks broadened the discussion to federal regulation and national politics. A possible special session remains open as the state considers further action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What AI risks are covered by the California measures?
The measures address potential job losses and workplace surveillance.
Q. What must AI chatbot operators do before launch?
They must perform risk assessments before rolling out their chatbots.
Q. What term must California agencies continue using?
State agencies must continue referring to the technology as “artificial intelligence”.
Q. Why did Newsom criticise Trump?
Newsom criticised Trump over the lack of comprehensive federal AI regulations.
Q. Could California lawmakers return for a special session?
Newsom left open the possibility of calling lawmakers back to address the issue.
Q. What did Newsom say about a presidential run?
He said the time to make that decision would arrive when it arrived.
