With the legislative session in New York coming to a close, the Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA) has called on Governor Kathy Hochul to veto the RAISE Act (S 6953). The bill proposes holding AI developers accountable for actions beyond their control and would prohibit standard safeguards that protect open AI research. According to CCIA, if enacted, this legislation could hinder innovation and weaken New York's standing as a leader in technology.
The proposed legislation aims to make AI developers liable for how third parties use their tools, even when those uses are outside of the developers' control. It would also remove existing legal protections that help developers manage such risks. This change is seen as particularly detrimental to publicly shared AI models, which enable researchers and startups to build upon each other's work freely. Without these safeguards, original developers could face lawsuits for unintended or unforeseen uses of their tools. Consequently, many projects might be forced to shut down or relocate out of state, leaving only restricted-use AI models and curtailing open collaboration that has historically driven internet innovation.
Nationally, policymakers are exploring thoughtful approaches to managing emerging AI technologies. The CCIA has urged both New York Senate and House leaders to focus on creating clear rules that foster public trust and support research rather than adopting measures that might drive innovation away from the state.
Kyle Sepe, State Policy Manager for CCIA, stated: “Lawmakers should take the time to get AI policy right. New York risks undermining its position as a tech leader by adopting sweeping liability rules that punish developers for uses they can’t predict or control. Instead of passing flawed laws at the end of a long legislative session, the state should engage with experts and communities to carefully craft solutions that protect consumers and support innovation.”