South Dakota Legislator Leads Coalition to Preserve State Authority in AI Regulations
A South Dakota legislator is at the forefront of a bipartisan coalition of over 250 lawmakers urging federal policymakers to maintain state authority in artificial intelligence (AI) regulations. Senate Minority Leader Liz Larson is the lead Democratic state official signing a letter calling on the U.S. Congress to reject a proposed 10-year moratorium on states governing the use, development, and advancement of AI.

The provision, included in the ‘Big Beautiful Bill,’ aims to prevent state legislatures from adopting their own AI regulations. Larson’s efforts are part of a broader movement among state lawmakers to preserve their authority in this rapidly evolving technological landscape.
The debate centers on the balance between federal oversight and state-level regulation of AI. Proponents of state authority argue that local governance allows for more tailored approaches to AI regulation, addressing specific regional concerns and needs.
Larson’s leadership in this matter highlights the growing importance of AI policy at both state and federal levels. As AI continues to advance and integrate into various aspects of society, the regulatory framework surrounding it will play a crucial role in shaping its development and application.
The coalition’s efforts underscore the complex interplay between technological innovation, legislative power, and the need for adaptive regulatory frameworks.