TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida lawmakers are dedicating this week to discussions on artificial intelligence (AI), marking the Capitol’s first AI-themed agenda as state officials and federal leaders debate who should dictate regulatory frameworks. The conversations come amidst rising concerns over how AI will impact individual rights and the job market.
President Donald Trump has announced plans to issue an executive order aimed at preventing states from establishing their own AI regulations. He argues that a unified national framework is essential for maintaining the United States’ competitive edge in technology. “There must be only one rulebook if we are going to continue to lead in A-I,” Trump stated on Truth Social.
In contrast, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is urging lawmakers to proceed independently, advocating for what he calls an AI Bill of Rights designed to enhance protections for state residents. “We will never ever be able to shed ourselves of our responsibility to think for ourselves,” DeSantis asserted. “We cannot turn it over to machines and think it’s all going to work out great in the end.”
DeSantis’ proposal seeks to establish new regulations around AI, including implementing parental controls for minors, restricting the commercial use of an individual’s name, image, and likeness, and ensuring consumers are informed when interacting with AI chatbots. The plan also addresses the energy consumption of data centers by prohibiting utilities from raising rates to support them and blocking the use of taxpayer funds for their construction. Senate President Ben Albritton emphasized that the initiative aims to protect the personal liberties of Floridians.
While Democrats are open to the introduction of new AI rules, they stress the importance of addressing how automation may transform the labor market. House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell highlighted the need for training and transition tools to support workers who could be displaced by technological advancements. “We want to make sure that we’re having those conversations — that we’re doing what we can to protect workers and minimize job loss,” Driskell said. “Making sure workers are getting the opportunity to get trained on new technologies so they don’t get displaced.”
Among the various bills under consideration, one aims to restrict the use of AI in the insurance industry, preventing companies from relying solely on automated systems to approve or deny claims. “While these tools can improve speed and efficiency, no Floridians should have a claim denied based solely on an automated output,” remarked State Representative Hillary Cassel.
Lawmakers plan to continue their hearings and workshops throughout the week, with the 2026 Legislative Session set to commence in January. As states navigate the complex landscape of AI regulation, the outcomes of these discussions could significantly shape the future of technology governance in the U.S.
See also
Trump Proposes Executive Order to Block State AI Regulations Amid Colorado Law Delays
South Korea Mandates AI-Generated Ad Labeling to Combat Deceptive Promotions
Trump Proposes National AI Standards, Threatening State Laws in Michigan and 35 Others
HHS Reveals 21-Page AI Strategy to Transform Healthcare with Five Core Pillars
Trump Aims for Federal Control of AI to Prevent State-Level Regulations and Job Losses
