rki.news
Source: Anadolu Agency
Washington, Dec. 13 — US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order blocking individual states from enforcing their own artificial intelligence (AI) regulations, aiming for a centralized federal approach to AI governance.
Speaking in the Oval Office on Thursday, Trump said, “We want to have one central source of approval,” emphasizing that the administration would support only state rules related to children’s safety. White House AI adviser David Sacks added that the order gives the federal government tools to push back against the most “onerous” state rules.
The move is seen as a win for technology companies advocating nationwide AI legislation, arguing that conflicting state laws could slow innovation and hinder the US in its competition with China.
Currently, no national AI laws exist, but over 1,000 AI bills have been introduced across states. In 2025, 38 states, including California, passed around 100 AI regulations covering issues from protecting children to limiting AI misuse in healthcare and copyright.
Critics say the order undermines states’ rights. California Governor Gavin Newsom called it a move favoring tech interests, while advocacy groups warned federal preemption could weaken safeguards. Tech lobby group NetChoice praised the decision, noting the need for clear nationwide rules.
Experts say a single federal law could reduce conflicts but caution that its effectiveness depends on how comprehensive and enforceable it is.