In a move that could shape the future of artificial intelligence regulation, California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed two pivotal bills focused on AI safety. These bills, which dictate how external entities appraise AI systems for risk, followed growing apprehensions after a former researcher from AI companies Anthropic and OpenAI expressed concerns over the existential threats posed by the unchecked development of AI technologies.
The bills received significant backing from major industry players. In August, Anthropic put forth its support, and just before the bills were inked into law, OpenAI endorsed them as well. Their support coincided with viral social media posts from former AI researcher Jacob Coxon, who resigned from Anthropic while warning of companies’ reckless race toward developing superintelligent AI, raising alarms about the potential risks involved.
Newsom highlighted the urgency of establishing robust safeguards, emphasizing the potential and perils of AI in a statement shared with POLITICO. He urged the federal government to enact comprehensive regulations parallel to the rapid advancements in AI technology. His appeal reflects the concern that while AI offers remarkable possibilities, it needs stringent oversight to ensure public safety.
The first bill, pioneered by Democratic Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, establishes a protocol for creating a registry and ethical standards for third-party auditors assessing AI models. The second bill, introduced by former Congressman and current State Senator Jerry McNerney, sets criteria for certifying “Independent Verification Organizations” capable of evaluating AI systems’ risks.
McNerney, echoing Newsom’s sentiments, criticized the lack of federal initiative on AI governance. He referenced incidents where AI systems reportedly executed hacks autonomously during trials, underscoring the pressing need for vigilant oversight.
OpenAI’s Chief Global Affairs Officer Chris Lehane articulated the necessity of these legislative measures in maintaining industry momentum toward safeguarding AI. Lehane voiced his commitment to advocating for nationwide AI safety regulations and endorsed additional legislation in California that targets AI’s impact on children.
Anthropic remains steadfast in its transparency concerning the dual-edged nature of AI technologies. A spokesperson affirmed the company’s dedication to implementing some of the strictest safety measures in the industry, advocating for a regulatory framework that allows the industry to release powerful models responsibly.
As California moves forward with these regulations, it sets a precedent for national policy on AI safety. The bills underscore a proactive stance in mitigating AI risks, even as federal action remains stalled.
You can read the original article here: https://www.politico.com/news/2026/09/09/newsom-signs-ai-safety-bills-backed-by-anthropic-openai-01069928
