California Governor Gavin Newsom signed laws on Wednesday aimed at protecting workers from the threats of artificial intelligence, including potential job losses and workplace surveillance.
The laws ban employers from using AI to predict a worker's emotional state through biometric data, require written notices to workers if AI is responsible for mass layoffs, and prohibit relying on AI to decide to fire someone.
Executive order and criticism of Trump
Newsom also signed an executive order requiring state agencies to use the term "artificial intelligence" instead of "super intelligence," a term Donald Trump recently ordered US diplomats to adopt.
"AI should expand opportunity – not come at the expense of workers and families," Newsom said in a statement. "As this technology reshapes the workplace, California is putting people at the center."
At an hour-long event with reporters, Newsom sharply criticized Trump for failing to pass comprehensive federal AI regulations, noting that industry leaders have warned about the technology's risks. Trump said on Tuesday that top tech leaders signed a voluntary accord to "self-police" AI development.
Further actions and local news support
Earlier this month, Newsom signed a law requiring AI chatbot operators to conduct risk assessments before deployment and an executive order to consult experts for improved oversight. "We have to do a lot more in the absence of federal leadership," he said, leaving open the possibility of a special legislative session.
The event, held on Newsom's last day to sign or veto bills before his term ends in January, began with a law creating a tax credit program to help local news organizations hire and retain journalists. Newsom criticized Trump's "assault on a free press," citing the barring of news organizations from the White House.
Political remarks and 2028 speculation
Newsom addressed the upcoming midterms, which will decide control of Congress, and reiterated the stakes: "There will not be a free and fair election in 2028 unless we take back the House of Representatives."
Asked about a deadline for a 2028 presidential run, he said: "That moment will arrive when it arrives." Kamala Harris has also said she is considering running, and Newsom told CNN he would not run if she entered the race; he said they have not spoken since.
Newsom also commented on a November ballot proposal to temporarily raise taxes on billionaires, which he opposes. He respected supporters like Bernie Sanders, saying: "He's spot on about the balance between the rich and the poor. On this issue, we fundamentally disagree."
His remarks came hours before a gubernatorial debate between Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton. Asked if he would watch, Newsom said: "No."
