PA Leaders Sound Alarm Over Surging AI Powers That Could 'Kill Us All'
Leaders in Pennsylvania are expressing concern over the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and its potential dangers, echoing warnings from industry researchers. Governor Josh Shapiro recently rolled back policies that fast-tracked data center projects after bipartisan outcry. Lawmakers are now proposing new legislation for AI transparency and safety, and there are calls for a three-year moratorium on data center construction in the state.
Pennsylvania leaders are increasingly concerned about the unchecked progression of artificial intelligence, joining a nationwide chorus of warnings, including a prominent former Anthropic researcher who resigned over safety concerns. Attorney General Dave Sunday, along with a coalition of state attorneys general, is pushing back against the power of "Big Tech" and advocating for immediate "guardrails" on AI development.
Governor Josh Shapiro, while acknowledging AI's potential for good, echoed these concerns, stating that recent warnings from AI industry leaders should prompt federal action similar to FDA regulation for pharmaceuticals. This stance follows Shapiro's recent executive order to roll back a year-long policy that had fast-tracked permits for massive, hyperscale AI data center projects across Pennsylvania, a decision prompted by significant bipartisan opposition to the preferential treatment given to these developments.
Simultaneously, state lawmakers are proposing new legislative measures. Democratic State Sen. Art Haywood plans to introduce legislation for transparency and safety requirements for AI companies in Pennsylvania, aligning with efforts in states like California, Illinois, and New York. State Representatives Melissa Shusterman and Greg Scott have introduced similar bills, emphasizing the need for government oversight to prevent "catastrophic harm" from advanced AI systems. Furthermore, both Republicans and Democrats in Pennsylvania have repeatedly advocated for a three-year moratorium on data center construction to allow for comprehensive impact studies and a clearer understanding of their utility.