Elon Musk has publicly supported California’s Senate Bill 1047 (SB 1047), which focuses on introducing safety and accountability measures for large AI systems.
This bill, which has stirred considerable debate within the tech community, would mandate companies that invest over $100 million in developing powerful AI models to conduct safety testing before these models are released. Additionally, it includes provisions for a “kill switch” mechanism to potentially shut down AI systems if they exhibit uncontrollable behavior post-launch.
Musk’s endorsement came via posts on X, where he acknowledged the controversial nature of his support, indicating that it might upset some but emphasized the necessity of AI regulation. His stance is grounded in over two decades of advocacy for AI regulation, likening it to the regulation of any technology posing potential risks to the public.
This support comes at a critical time as SB 1047 is nearing a final vote in the California state Assembly, with a deadline looming for it to potentially reach Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk for approval or veto by September 30, 2024. Despite opposition from parts of the tech industry, including figures like Meta’s chief AI scientist Yann LeCun who criticized the bill for its potential to stifle AI development, Musk’s backing adds significant weight to the bill’s momentum.
The bill’s implications are broad, aiming not only at safety but also at addressing concerns like algorithmic bias and protecting intellectual property, reflecting a broader legislative season in California where AI-related bills have been a focal point. Musk’s involvement highlights a divide within the tech community on how AI should be regulated, with some seeing it as necessary for public safety and others viewing it as an overreach that could hinder innovation.
