OpenAI is pushing for federal relief from the multitude of bills being considered by individual states that could hinder the swift advancement of artificial intelligence. In a comprehensive 15-page document, OpenAI has responded to a request from the Trump administration as it develops an AI Action Plan. The company is urging the federal government to intervene and halt state measures that could impede technological innovation in AI, a concern likely to resonate with President Trump, who favors a hands-off approach to development.
The petition echoes OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s previous calls for loosening copyright laws to support AI innovation. The organization argues that proposed state legislation could significantly slow down the progress of AI technology. In exchange for federal oversight, OpenAI is prepared to offer the government voluntary access to its AI systems, according to reports from Bloomberg.
OpenAI has been actively collaborating with the Trump administration and recently launched ChatGPT Gov, a specialized AI tool for government use that can handle sensitive information within secure environments. This initiative aligns with Altman’s strategy to leverage America’s AI capabilities amid growing competition from countries like China.
With the rapid advancements in China’s AI sector and the emergence of competitive AI applications, OpenAI’s proposal highlights urgent concerns about maintaining a competitive edge. The document argues that if U.S. companies lack access to necessary data while Chinese developers operate without restrictions, the U.S. is at risk of falling behind in the AI race.
In contrast, some states are pursuing their own regulatory frameworks for AI. California, for instance, recently blocked one such bill but continues to explore AI safety legislation. However, OpenAI advocates for a federal solution, suggesting communication with the U.S. AI Safety Institute could streamline AI development and ensure a more robust regulatory environment, a move that could lead to tension with state-level lawmakers.
