House GOP Proposes 10-Year AI Regulation Freeze, Sparking Big Tech and Consumer Protection Debate
May 13, 2025
House Republicans have introduced a budget bill that proposes a ten-year moratorium on state regulations concerning artificial intelligence (AI).
As the landscape evolves, experts stress the importance of staying informed about regulatory changes that could impact businesses and organizations.
Supporters of the proposal, including AI developers and some lawmakers, argue that a unified federal standard is essential to prevent a fragmented regulatory landscape that could stifle technological growth.
Critics, including Brad Carson from the AI safety think tank Americans for Responsible Innovation, warn that this provision represents a dangerous concession to Big Tech, potentially harming public interests and small businesses.
Businesses are currently facing strategic decisions regarding AI implementation during this regulation-free period, with many establishing internal governance councils to navigate the uncertainty.
While the intention behind the moratorium may be to streamline regulations, it risks reducing consumer protections, as many states have begun implementing their own AI regulations.
The proposed moratorium may invalidate existing state regulations, allowing exceptions only for laws that promote AI development or apply to non-AI models.
Industry leaders emphasize the need for a balanced governance approach that fosters innovation while ensuring accountability and public trust.
The bill's provisions may be easier to pass due to reconciliation rules, which allow a simple majority in the Senate without the threat of a filibuster.
Democratic Representative Jan Schakowsky has criticized the moratorium as a significant advantage for major tech companies, suggesting it could lead to diminished consumer privacy protections and an increase in harmful AI practices.
This year, there has been a notable increase in AI regulations targeting healthcare, particularly in areas like claim processing and patient notifications.
The current administration has reversed several previous executive orders aimed at AI oversight, indicating a shift towards more industry-friendly policies.
Summary based on 32 sources
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Sources

The Washington Post • May 13, 2025
House GOP eyes moratorium on state AI laws
The Washington Post • May 14, 2025
A ban on state-level AI regulation would put Americans at risk
Ars Technica • May 13, 2025
GOP sneaks decade-long AI regulation ban into spending bill
CNET • May 13, 2025
States Want to Regulate AI. Why Congress May Push Back