Newsom Signs New California Laws to Protect Workers from AI Risks
California Governor Gavin Newsom enacted legislation Wednesday focused on safeguarding employees from the risks posed by artificial intelligence, such as possible job displacement and monitoring in the workplace.
He likewise issued an executive order mandating that state agencies keep referring to the technology as "artificial intelligence" rather than the phrase "super intelligence" that President Donald Trump recently instructed US diplomats to use.
"The Democratic governor stated, 'AI must create opportunities rather than undermine workers and families.'" "With this technology transforming the workplace, California is prioritizing people." Newsom strongly condemned Trump during a one-hour event with reporters for failing to implement comprehensive federal AI regulations while industry leaders are raising concerns about the risks of the technology.
Trump announced on Tuesday that leading tech executives agreed to a voluntary pact to "self-regulate" AI advancement.
This month, the governor approved legislation mandating AI chatbot operators to conduct risk assessments prior to deployment and issued an executive order for the state to work with specialists to enhance industry oversight.
"We need to take significantly more action without federal guidance," Newsom stated, suggesting the potential of reconvening lawmakers for a special session to address the matter further.
The press conference occurred on Newsom's final day to approve or reject bills before he finishes his term in January. It also arrived weeks before the midterm elections that will determine control of Congress.
Also Read: BRICS Summit 2026: 15 Key Takeaways You Need to Know
Newsom engaged early in that struggle by guiding Democrats last year in a redistricting conflict to enhance their prospects of securing additional House seats. He has continuously stated that the risks are significant if his party fails in November.
Also Read: After Tim Cook: What John Ternus's Apple CEO Era Means for AI, Innovation & Hardware
"Unless we reclaim the House of Representatives, there won't be a free and fair election in 2028," he stated on Wednesday.
When questioned about establishing a deadline for his 2028 presidential run, Newsom was noncommittal, stating, "that moment will come when it comes." Former Democratic presidential hopeful Kamala Harris, who, like Newsom, originates from the San Francisco Bay Area, has also mentioned she is contemplating a run for the position in 2028.
Also Read: The Rising Cost of the Canada-US Trade War: Tariffs Reshaping Cross-Border Trade
Newsom stated to CNN recently that he would not pursue a presidential bid if she decided to run. He mentioned that the two have not talked since that interview was broadcast.