US Leaders Push for Stricter AI and Surveillance Regulation

A wave of political and public backlash against artificial intelligence and surveillance technology has led to new regulatory actions across the United States. In Pennsylvania, Governor Josh Shapiro issued an executive order increasing transparency and oversight for data center development. The order removes data centers from the governor's Fast Track permitting program, prohibits state agencies from signing non-disclosure agreements for these projects, and requires developers to meet specific clean energy and job creation goals.

These state-level actions follow a Franklin & Marshall College poll showing that 84% of Pennsylvania registered voters favor stricter federal regulation of AI companies and 79% oppose data center construction in their communities. Local governments in Pennsylvania have already begun acting, with Reading implementing a six-month moratorium on new data center proposals and Cumru Township passing a regulatory ordinance.

Parallel efforts to curb technological overreach are occurring nationally. Senator Josh Hawley launched an investigation into Flock Safety regarding the data practices of its 120,000 AI surveillance cameras. In Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis warned against the creation of a "surveillance state." This political movement is supported by business leaders like Bill Gates, who published a 12-page essay advocating for increased scrutiny of AI due to its potential dangers.