Governors Stitt & Shapiro Oppose AI Regulation Freeze in Senate Bill – States Must Retain Control
Oklahoma City, OK & Harrisburg, PA – June 27, 2025 – In a rare bipartisan move, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt and Pennsylvania Governor Josh shapiro have jointly voiced opposition to a provision within the current budget reconciliation bill navigating the U.S. Senate. The contested language would effectively prohibit states from regulating artificial intelligence (AI) for the next ten years.
The Governors released a statement today emphasizing the critical need for states to maintain regulatory versatility as AI technology rapidly advances.
“As Governors, we are opposed to language that would prohibit states from regulating artificial intelligence for the next decade,” the joint statement reads. “As emerging technologies rapidly evolve, it is indeed essential that states retain the flexibility to respond to their unique economic, social, and public safety needs. In Oklahoma and Pennsylvania, we both recognize the importance of maintaining this flexibility in order to continue creating real growth and opportunity – and to help manage the challenges of the future as states.”
This opposition highlights a growing concern among state leaders regarding the potential for a one-size-fits-all federal approach to AI regulation. Governors Stitt and Shapiro argue that states are best positioned to understand and address the specific impacts of AI within their jurisdictions, fostering innovation while safeguarding citizens.
Implications & What’s Next:
The Governors’ statement adds important pressure to Senators currently debating the budget reconciliation bill. The outcome of this debate will have lasting implications for the future of AI governance in the United States, potentially shaping how states can address issues like algorithmic bias, data privacy, and workforce displacement caused by AI-driven automation.
Call to Action: Readers are encouraged to contact their Senators to express their views on state versus federal control of AI regulation.
