In a bold bid to rival California's pioneering stance on artificial intelligence (AI) regulations, New York Assemblymember Alex Bores is advocating for the Empire State to step up its game before his term expires at the end of the year. Having previously encountered significant resistance from Big Tech, Bores experienced firsthand the industry's clout during his failed Congressional bid. Despite these setbacks, his resolve remains firm, fueled by increasing public concern over AI's unchecked growth and potential risks.

"This is an urgent problem, and too frequently we have left it to California to set the nationwide standards," Bores stated, emphasizing New York's capacity to lead in this critical area. With a background in the tech sector, Bores is no stranger to the intricacies of AI. He recently initiated a $30 million group aimed at crafting the Democratic agenda on AI regulations, positioning himself as a national figure on this pressing issue.

While California continues to progress, with Governor Gavin Newsom signing an executive order to expedite the implementation of AI safety laws, New York’s response appears more measured. Governor Kathy Hochul's office has indicated that there are currently no plans for a special session on AI, contrasting sharply with the proactive discussions and actions taking place on the West Coast.

California's approach includes innovative measures such as contemplating a "kill switch" for advanced AI models, an idea that has yet to see parallel consideration in New York. Meanwhile, New York's regulatory actions recently focused on utilities, requiring them to report their use of AI, as stated by state regulators.

As Bores prepares to exit his legislative role, he reflects on the challenges and the vital need to regulate a technology that is rapidly evolving beyond human oversight. His advocacy for a special session in Albany underscores the urgency with which he believes these issues must be addressed.

The competition between states to establish AI regulations underscores a broader national and industry-wide alarm over the pace at which AI is advancing. With the Trump administration downplaying AI safety threats and Congress showing little movement on the issue, states like New York and California find themselves at the forefront of shaping future norms and practices for AI usage.

As Bores’ term nears its end, the question remains whether New York can indeed set a new standard for AI regulation, or if California will continue to lead the way in this uncharted territory.