Even though federal lawmakers and international summits may draw the most media attention when it comes to AI policymaking, statehouses across the 50 state capitals have been very active in regulating the technology industry. Underestimate their impact on future of AI innovation at one’s peril. In Delve's Nationwide Risk Assessment, we focus on the U.S. states and their regulatory trends that could hinder or advance the AI industry.

Key Trends In U.S. Nationwide AI Policy

1. Tech A Rising Focus In Statehouses

State lawmakers have been increasingly turning their attention to the tech industry in the past several years, hoping to address some of challenges caused by a life lived online. AI has arrived on the scene at a time when states are already more than eager to take the fight to Big Tech and place restrictions around tech innovations.

2. Statewide Elected Officials Flex Their Muscles

It’s not only legislators pushing back on Big Tech at the state level. Statewide elected officials, such as Attorneys General, are using their regulatory, investigative, and enforcement powers to target Big Tech, making it crucial for AI companies and stakeholders to understand not only what laws are proposed but also how those laws might be enforced, not to mention how officials may leverage existing authorities.

3. Restricting Tech Is A Bipartisan Project — But Most States Don’t Need Consensus To Act

Interest in regulating the technology industry has been bipartisan, however some issues—like social media censorship and algorithmic discrimination—tend to draw support from just one or the other party. With one party controlling both the governorship and legislature in 39 states, expect many bills to reflect the ruling party’s favorite policy provisions. That could leave AI developers and users stuck between diverging red and blue state rules.

4. The AI Bill Tidal Wave of 2024

Thanks to the timing of AI’s rise to everyday prominence, there were just a trickle of AI bills from state legislators in 2023, but firms should expect a tidal wave of legislation across the nation come 2024, making it imperative to help leading policymakers in key states understand and anticipate the impact of their policy initiatives. Otherwise, those developing or utilizing AI will face a patchwork of contradictory or inoperable regulations after next year’s legislative sessions wrap up.

Why Delve's Nationwide Risk Assessment is Your Go-To Resource

Delve's Nationwide Risk Assessment on AI is a must-have tool for anyone looking to navigate the convoluted landscape of state AI policy. The report identifies key policymakers at the state level, their stance on AI, and the potential risks or opportunities they present. The assessment analyzes past and current legislation, executive actions, and comments from policymakers and regulators, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the state-by-state policy environment. Our analysis identified eight key factors driving which states are likely to advance AI policies in the coming year, and what issues are top of mind for state policymakers to address.

What’s Inside The Report?

Here’s a sneak peak at the table of contents:

Who Will Benefit From This Report?

• Startup Founders: If you're at the helm of an emerging AI company, this risk assessment provides the state-level legislative, regulatory, and legal insights you need to strategically navigate your growth and innovation.

• VC Funders: Gain a deep understanding of the state-by-state regulatory landscape to make smart investment choices in AI startups.

• Policy Advocates: Equip yourself with comprehensive insights to shape the conversation in state capitals in favor of your AI objectives.

• Public Affairs Professionals in and outside the tech sector: Leverage this report to advise your organizations and clients on which states are likely to take what actions, and how to engage with the right state policymakers to educate them on how AI will impact your industry.

Ready to secure your future in the rapidly evolving AI landscape across the U.S.?