The Assembly Privacy and Consumer Protection Committee of the California State Assembly convened on May 27, 2025, to discuss pressing issues surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) regulation and consumer protection. The meeting highlighted the need for California to take a leadership role in establishing guidelines and regulations in the absence of federal direction.

The session began with a discussion on the current state of AI practices among companies. Committee members noted that while some organizations are effectively managing data and consumer interactions, others lag behind. It was emphasized that many companies possess the capability to improve their practices, as evidenced by those already complying with existing regulations, such as the Department of Justice settlement involving Meta.

Sally Marapiller, a committee member, expressed her growing interest in AI's implications, particularly regarding elections. She pointed out the lack of federal leadership in this area, urging California to step up with legislative initiatives. The conversation shifted to other states, with members discussing Colorado's advanced AI legislation and the ongoing efforts in Utah, New Jersey, and Connecticut to develop similar frameworks.

The committee acknowledged the importance of collaboration among states to address AI-related challenges. A multistate AI working group was mentioned, highlighting the collective effort to create effective policies. Members agreed on the necessity of integrating discussions on AI with broader issues such as discrimination and consumer protection.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the potential risks associated with advanced AI systems. Yoshua Bengio, a professor from the University of Montreal, was invited to present on the catastrophic risks posed by increasingly capable AI technologies. He underscored the urgency of developing strategies to ensure these systems remain aligned with human values and do not operate beyond our control.

Overall, the meeting underscored California's pivotal role in shaping AI policy and the need for proactive measures to safeguard consumer interests and address the ethical implications of emerging technologies. The committee plans to continue its discussions and explore further legislative actions in the coming sessions.