Trump Adjusts AI Regulation Under Industrial Pressure

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Key Takeaways

1Donald Trump signed a revised executive order to oversee AI models before their launch.

2AI companies must submit their models for review 30 days before their release, down from the initially planned 90 days.

3The order excludes any licensing or pre-approval requirements for new AI models.

💡Why it matters — This decision reflects a balance between regulating AI and maintaining competitiveness against China, influencing American technological innovation.

An Executive Order to Regulate AI

President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order that alters the way artificial intelligence (AI) models are supervised before they hit the market. This decree aims to give the government the ability to review these powerful technological tools before their public deployment.

Adjusted Submission Timeline

Under the new order, AI companies are encouraged to voluntarily submit their models to the government for testing or evaluation 30 days prior to their launch. Initially, an earlier version of the order proposed a 90-day timeline for this review. However, industry stakeholders expressed a preference for a shorter timeframe, around two weeks, to avoid hindering their capacity for innovation.

Reactions and Adjustments

The signing of this order was delayed, as Trump was initially set to approve a stricter version at the end of May. This postponement came after influential figures in the industry, such as venture capitalist and former White House AI lead David Sacks, voiced their concerns. Trump emphasized that he did not want these regulations to stifle the competitiveness of American companies against China.

Clarifications on Requirements

The executive order clarifies that it should not be interpreted as imposing mandatory government licenses or pre-approvals for the development or dissemination of new AI models, including the most advanced ones. This clarification aims to reassure companies that their ability to innovate will not be hindered by excessive administrative constraints.

A Discreet Signing

Although Trump initially planned to sign this order in the presence of numerous leaders from Silicon Valley, he ultimately chose to do so privately. This decision may reflect the sensitivity of the topic and the behind-the-scenes discussions that preceded this decision.

Prioritizing Security

In addition to the voluntary review of AI models, the executive order directs the Department of Justice to prioritize combating crimes such as AI-assisted hacking and unauthorized access to computer systems. This measure underscores the importance placed on security in the context of the rapid rise of AI.

Background on AI Regulation

This is not the first time Trump has engaged in AI regulation. Last December, he had already signed an order aimed at establishing a national policy framework for AI, intended to anticipate state legislation in this area. This initiative is part of a broader effort to position the United States as a leader in the development and regulation of AI.