Big Tech’s desperate last push at AI regulation Big Tech is pushing for federal AI preemption before the midterms, attempting to link it with child safety legislation like the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA). However, this potential deal has caused widespread confusion due to disagreements between House and Senate versions of KOSA, and a lack of clear communication from the White House and other legislative bodies. The proposed ‘shotgun marriage’ of these two distinct legislative efforts faces significant political hurdles and skepticism from various stakeholders, making its passage uncertain.

• Big Tech lobbyists are seeking comprehensive federal AI preemption, overriding state-by-state regulations, before the upcoming midterms.
• A potential strategy involves linking AI preemption with child safety laws, specifically the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA).
• Reports indicate the White House is backing Senator Marsha Blackburn’s version of KOSA as part of a preemption package, but this move has reportedly blindsided House Republicans and Democrats involved in KOSA.
• Disagreements exist between the House and Senate versions of KOSA, with the House version being considered weaker by child safety advocates.
• The inclusion of KOSA is seen as fulfilling Mike Davis’s ‘Four Cs’ (children, conservatives, creators, and communities) requirement for AI preemption, though Davis insists all four must be addressed.
• The legislative schedule is tight, with limited time before elections and other pressing matters on the congressional agenda.
• The combination of AI preemption and KOSA presents Big Tech with a difficult choice regarding their priorities.
• Skepticism is high among lobbyists and policy advocates regarding the feasibility and potential success of this legislative strategy. Continue reading https://www.theverge.com/policy/949970/ai-regulation-child-safety-kosa-congress