Column: Artificial Intelligence doesn’t wait; Vermont can’t either
Column: Artificial Intelligence doesn’t wait; Vermont can’t either
https://vnews.com/2026/01/08/column-artificial-intelligence-doesnt-wait-vermont-cant-either/
Publish Date: 2026-01-08 09:18:00
Source Domain: vnews.com
- Vermont legislators are actively monitoring the White House’s executive order targeting state-level artificial intelligence (AI) laws and are prepared to protect citizens against technological harms.
- The executive order does not create new federal law or repeal existing state protections but instead uses intimidation tactics to challenge state legislation aimed at safeguarding people, including directing federal agencies to oppose state laws, potential litigation, and threatening funding.
- The approach of the executive order is deemed reckless and unjust based on years of bipartisan work on technology policy spearheaded by various state legislators and national task forces.
- Public concern in Vermont about technology’s impact on privacy, data use, and automation is widespread and has driven state leaders to action. These concerns echo similar issues across the country.
- States have traditionally been the “laboratories of democracy,” and this role is critical now more than ever as technology impacts various life sectors. States are asserting their authority to regulate AI within their jurisdictions without federal overreach.
- Threatening state funding for critical services, such as rural broadband infrastructure and cybersecurity, is seen as coercive and harmful to already underserved communities.
- Technology policy has become increasingly central to state legislative conversations due to its pervasive influence on housing, education, healthcare, and the economy.
- Vermont and state legislators nationwide are coordinating efforts to stand together against any federal pressure aimed at undermining states’ ability to protect their constituents.
- Legislative action on AI at the state level is becoming urgent as technology’s impact grows; Vermont’s leaders are committed to continuing these efforts and opposing any attempts to hinder state regulatory authority.
