Preserve state authority over AI regulation to safeguard communities

As state and local authorities, we have a responsibility to protect our communities from potential harms posed by rapidly advancing AI technologies. Imposing a 10-year moratorium on state AI regulation would strip us of this crucial ability to safeguard our constituents' interests. AI systems are being deployed in high-stakes domains like healthcare, education, employment, and law enforcement, with far-reaching impacts on individuals' lives. A one-size-fits-all federal approach fails to account for the diverse needs and values of different regions. States must retain the flexibility to enact tailored regulations responsive to their unique contexts. Furthermore, many states have already taken proactive steps to address AI-related issues like deepfakes, election disinformation, and algorithmic bias. Preempting these efforts would erase vital consumer protections and leave our residents vulnerable to exploitation. We cannot afford a regulatory vacuum where corporate interests supersede public welfare. While reasonable federal guidelines are welcome, an absolute ban on state AI laws for a decade is an unacceptable overreach that threatens public trust and safety. We urge you to reject this moratorium and allow states to uphold their duty to their people through responsible AI governance.