New York's RAISE Act: Pioneering AI Safety Regulations Amidst Federal Challenges

Update New York Sets a Precedent with the RAISE Act On December 20, 2025, New York Governor Kathy Hochul made headlines by signing the RAISE Act, establishing crucial regulations for artificial intelligence (AI) safety. This makes New York the second U.S. state after California to implement significant measures regarding the ethical development and deployment of advanced AI technologies. The RAISE Act mandates that large AI developers disclose information about their safety protocols and report any safety incidents within a 72-hour window to the state. Such actions represent not just a move towards transparency but a significant step in holding big tech accountable for their innovations. Understanding the Importance of AI Regulation AI technologies are evolving at a rapid pace, often outstripping the existing regulations designed to govern their use. As these systems become more complex and integrated across various sectors, their potential to impact daily life grows exponentially. The RAISE Act is a response to alarmingly fast advancements in AI that have outpaced federal regulations. Hochul emphasized that this legislation aims to fill the federal void, setting a benchmark for other states to follow. By establishing mandates for safety reporting and oversight, New York is asserting its role as a leader in responsible technology governance. Challenges from the Tech Industry However, the passage of the RAISE Act wasn't without its challenges. Intense lobbying from the tech industry sought to weaken the bill before its enactment. According to reports, these tech giants aimed for New York’s rules to align more closely with those implemented in California, advocating for a more lenient regulatory framework. Nevertheless, proponents of the bill, including Assemblyman Alex Bores and Senator Andrew Gounardes, managed to hold their ground. They maintained that while some concessions would be negotiated for future amendments, the core aspects of the bill needed to remain intact to ensure robust safety standards. A Response to Federal Inaction The urgency for the RAISE Act was underscored by federal movements perceived as attempts to undermine state-led AI regulations. Shortly before Hochul signed the bill, former President Trump issued an executive order discouraging state regulations on AI, believing that a free market would spur innovation. This executive order received bipartisan criticism, with many arguing that it jeopardized public safety and potentially stripped states of their authority to enact necessary regulations. Hochul’s response was clear: New York refuses to back down in the face of federal overreach. Future Implications of the RAISE Act The RAISE Act's introduction is not merely a local matter; it sets a precedent that could ripple across the nation. Both the RAISE Act and California's similar legislation illustrate a growing trend where states are stepping up to fill the regulatory gaps left by Congress’s inactivity. As leading states proactively implement safety protocols, they may pressure federal lawmakers to act, potentially leading to a national framework for AI regulations. The implications of this legislation could mean a safer AI future for the American public as states collaborate to create consistent standards and practices. What Industry Leaders Are Saying Responses from the tech community have been mixed. While some companies like OpenAI and Anthropic have expressed support for the new regulations and called for similar measures at the federal level, there remain prominent voices contesting the necessity of such oversight. Lobbyists are preparing to challenge lawmakers who supported the RAISE Act, asserting that rigid regulations hinder the innovation that makes AI viable and beneficial to society. Concluding Thoughts on AI Governance The successful passage of the RAISE Act marks a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about technology governance. It's a tangible acknowledgment from lawmakers that as AI's influence grows, so too must our commitment to responsible oversight. If other states follow New York and California's lead, we could witness a transformation in how technology is developed and utilized, balancing innovation with public safety and ethical considerations. The RAISE Act stands as a potent reminder that when it comes to technology, proactive regulation can lead to responsible advancement, safeguarding the public interest while still allowing for growth in this cutting-edge field.