Trump’s ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ Contains Controversial Block of States’ Rights on AI Regulation

A provision in President Trump’s “Big, Beautiful Bill Act” that would bar states from making their own laws on artificial intelligence (AI) regulation over the next 10 years has drawn criticism from voices across the spectrum.

The Details: The provision says, “no State or political subdivision thereof may enforce… any law or regulation… limiting, restricting, or otherwise regulating artificial intelligence models, artificial intelligence systems, or automated decision systems entered into interstate commerce.” There is, however, an exception for state laws supporting the development and “deployment” of AI.

For Context: Over 45 states introduced AI-related bills, and 31 passed resolutions or enacted laws during the last legislative season. Most recently, media outlets across the spectrum have highlighted criticisms of Trump’s bill from Elon Musk, who has described it as “massive,” “outrageous,” and “disgusting.” A recent report from The New York Times (Lean Left bias) suggested the Trump administration is deepening ties with software company Palantir to extend “surveillance” of Americans.

How The Media Covered It: The Intercept (Left bias) described the bill as a “handout to the AI industry” and highlighted that it also contains billions in spending for AI in the defense and intelligence sectors. It also described the provision on states’ rights as maybe “one of the least likely provisions to make it into law.” Unusual Whales (Center) noted that those in favor of the provision argue it “will bring national uniformity,” while critics think it “raises more questions than it answers.” Washington Examiner (Lean Right) and other outlets across the spectrum noted that Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) said she didn’t know about the provision when she voted for the bill in the House but has since come out vehemently against it.

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