Two former OpenAI researchers, Daniel Kokotajlo and William Saunders, recently expressed their disappointment with OpenAI’s decision to oppose California’s bill, SB 1047, aimed at preventing AI disasters. They believe that appropriate regulation is crucial for ensuring the safe development of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), but feel that OpenAI is engaging in a “reckless” race for dominance instead.
In response to their former employees’ concerns, an OpenAI spokesperson defended the startup’s position by emphasizing their support for AI regulation at the federal level. They argued that implementing frontier AI safety regulations should be done on a national scale due to the implications for national security and competitiveness. OpenAI’s stance on SB 1047 is therefore based on their belief that federal regulations would be more effective in addressing the challenges posed by AI technology.
On the other hand, OpenAI’s rival, Anthropic, has shown support for the bill while also raising specific concerns and requesting amendments. CEO Dario Amodei acknowledged that the current version of the bill could have positive effects that outweigh the potential costs. This nuanced approach highlights the complexity of the issue and the need for careful consideration when it comes to regulating AI technologies.
The debate surrounding AI regulation is far from over, with different stakeholders presenting varied perspectives on how best to address the risks and opportunities associated with artificial intelligence. While former employees and some competitors advocate for stricter regulations at the state level, others, like OpenAI, argue for a more centralized approach at the federal level. Finding common ground and balancing innovation with safety will be key to fostering a responsible AI ecosystem in the years to come.