California Gov. Gavin Newsom signs laws to protect workers from AI risks

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation on Wednesday designed to safeguard workers from the potential dangers of artificial intelligence. Among the measures, the laws prohibit employers from utilizing AI to gauge an employee's emotional state via biometric data, necessitate written notifications to staff when AI is responsible for large-scale dismissals, and restrict employers from permitting AI to make firing decisions.

The Democratic governor's signature also came with an executive order mandating state agencies to continue referring to AI as "artificial intelligence" rather than "super intelligence", a term President Donald Trump recently encouraged U.S. diplomats to use. Newsom emphasized that AI should create opportunities, not jeopardize workers and families, stating that California is prioritizing people during this technological shift.

Criticizing Trump for failing to implement federal AI regulations despite industry warnings, Newsom expressed his dissatisfaction during a press conference with reporters, hinting at the possibility of calling lawmakers back for a special session if necessary. This announcement came on Newsom's final day to sign or veto bills before he leaves office in January, as well as weeks before the midterm elections that could determine control of Congress.