Becerra: California Lacks AI Regulations, Seeks State Equity in AI

Becerra's comments, made following the release of his policy memo on AI rulemaking in the spring, are expected to draw attention from major AI companies such as OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, and Meta. These companies are closely observing California's policy direction, particularly as Governor Newsom prepares to leave office at the end of the year.

Furthermore, Becerra indicated a desire for California to "buy some equity in AI" to ensure that the economic gains from this burgeoning technology do not exacerbate existing inequalities. He drew a parallel to keeping the tech industry within the state, similar to his goal of retaining Hollywood. While he clarified that this does not necessarily mean public ownership of shares in AI companies, he suggested that "something along those lines wouldn’t be totally far fetched."