Senator Laphonza Butler: Why Supporting Big AI vs. Human Workers is a ‘False Choice’

Representing California in Congress poses unique challenges, especially when balancing national politics with the interests of the nation's most populous state, including a significant tech industry constituency. Both current California Senator Laphonza Butler and former Senator, now Vice President, Kamala Harris, have embraced this responsibility, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI).

Congress has struggled to establish a national framework for regulating generative AI, despite California’s status as the epicenter of the AI industry, home to companies like OpenAI and Google. On the national level, Harris has taken a lead role in the Biden administration, facilitating discussions with industry leaders and civil society on effective AI regulation. Butler, who has a strong relationship with Harris, is concentrating on the implications of AI on labor and social equity.

“Listening is where it all begins,” Butler emphasizes, drawing from her background as a labor leader. She advocates for dialogue between AI developers, communities that may be adversely affected, and those exploring new opportunities.

Butler seeks to protect Americans from AI risks while fostering potential advancements. She commends Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and the Biden administration for creating platforms that amplify community voices, incorporating insights from labor and civil society leaders alongside major AI executives to inform regulatory discussions.

She argues against “false choices” between the interests of AI executives and workers. “Listening is fundamental. Balancing everyone’s interests should aim to promote the greatest good for the most people,” Butler states.

Similar sentiments were expressed by California State Senator Scott Wiener regarding his contentious bill, SB 1047, which aimed to implement whistleblower protections and safety measures at large AI firms. The bill reached Governor Gavin Newsom, who ultimately vetoed it after companies like OpenAI warned it could hinder innovation. Wiener believes that “we can advance both innovation and safety; the two are not mutually exclusive.” However, lawmakers continue to grapple with finding this equilibrium.

Butler acknowledges the progress made by Schumer and the Biden-Harris administration in setting up necessary AI guardrails, but stresses, “there’s always more to do.” Earlier this year, Schumer proposed a roadmap for shaping AI policy, although it did not include specific legislative measures. The White House has also garnered voluntary commitments from AI companies to prioritize safe development practices.

One of Butler’s significant initiatives is the Workforce of the Future Act, co-introduced with Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI). This bill aims to direct the Department of Labor, National Science Foundation, and Department of Education to investigate AI's impact across job sectors and establish a $250 million grant program to help workers acquire essential skills for the future, particularly in sectors likely to face job displacement. Butler hopes this initiative will “prepare today’s workforce and equip tomorrow’s workforce to seize the opportunities presented by AI.”

Butler recognizes this as a critical moment in U.S. history, where policymakers have the chance to address inevitable disruptions and foster equitable opportunities that can stabilize economies. However, she is realistic about the challenges posed by the current congressional dynamics and the approaching election. She notes, “This 118th Congress is rapidly coming to a close with much on its agenda,” emphasizing the need for continued dialogue among diverse stakeholders before comprehensive AI legislation can progress. Butler also emphasizes the importance of navigating the upcoming presidential election this November.