Elon Musk Supports California AI Safety Bill Despite Concerns

On August 27, billionaire tech entrepreneur Elon Musk expressed support for a proposed legislation in California, despite concerns that it could stifle AI innovation in the US. In a post on his social media platform X, Musk stated that it was a "tough call," and would "make some people uncomfortable," but after considering all factors, he believes "California should pass SB 1047, the AI Safety Act."

Musk added that he has advocated for AI regulation for over 20 years, "just as we regulate any product/technology that has the potential to be dangerous to the public."

The California "Frontier Artificial Intelligence Model Safety Innovation Act," also known as SB 1047, was proposed by Democratic lawmakers in February. It mandates that AI developers implement safety protocols to prevent events like mass casualties or major cyberattacks, and requires AI models to be equipped with an "emergency stop" button.

Many in Silicon Valley have opposed the proposed legislation. The bill also includes requirements for annual third-party audits of AI safety practices, and the creation of a new Frontier Model Division (FMD) to oversee compliance.

Guillaume Verdon, leader of the "e/acc" movement for large tech companies, founder of the stealth AI startup Extropic, and former Google engineer, responded by saying that AI may be powerful, "but a dictatorial government with shadow control over powerful AI is scarier."

On August 21, Jason Kwon, Chief Strategy Officer at OpenAI, warned that the bill could stifle innovation and drive talent away from California. The bill has also faced opposition from House Speaker Emeritus Nancy Pelosi, House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Ranking Member Zoe Lofgren, Silicon Valley Congressman Ro Khanna, and venture capital and big tech giants Andreessen Horowitz and Meta.