Actors union and women’s groups push Gavin Newsom to sign AI safety bill

California Governor Gavin Newsom faces a decision on SB 1047, a proposed AI safety law. SAG-AFTRA, NOW, and Fund Her support the bill, highlighting concerns about AI's potential for catastrophic harm and disproportionate impacts on vulnerable groups. The bill would impose liability on AI developers for disasters without safeguards. Supporters, including the Center for AI Safety, believe it could set global standards for AI regulation. Opponents from the tech industry argue it could stifle innovation and lead to an exodus from California. The bill has drawn unusual alliances, with social justice groups and labor unions supporting it, while former Speaker Pelosi and venture capitalists oppose it. AI experts have raised warnings about the dangers of unregulated AI, particularly for women. NOW and Fund Her see SB 1047 as part of a broader effort to hold Big Tech accountable. Newsom's decision could shape the future of AI governance in California and beyond, potentially setting a precedent for the US and other jurisdictions.