Driving The Day

Today is August 1, 2024, and here are the key policymaker and stakeholder actions on AI you need to know: In Washington, DC, the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee advanced a handful of AI bills, though Ranking Member Ted Cruz (R-TX) criticized several of the bills and offered amendments to limit what he saw as regulatory overreach and provisions privileging large technology companies. Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) expressed support for two election-related AI proposals. In California, Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) promised to sign legislation soon that would make it illegal to manipulate a voice in an ad, which could refer to two election-related AI bills currently under consideration in the California legislature. Across the pond, the EU’s AI Act came into force today, which starts the clock on the law’s compliance deadlines over the next several months.

In this issue:

• Washington in Focus: FTC submits comment to FCC on work to protect consumers from potential harmful effects of AI. 

• Around the Nation: New York State Sen. Kristen Gonzalez discussed her bill to oversee AI in government.

• Across the Pond: A government-backed incubator is supporting U.K. chip startups.

• Global Highlights: Microsoft scales back AI partnership with Emirati firm amid concerns over China ties.

• Outside Views: OpenAI pledges to give U.S. AI Safety Institute early access to its next model.

Read these stories and more below: