Florida voters wanted AI legislation, but it failed
Florida voters wanted AI legislation, but it failed
Publish Date: 2026-03-28 07:02:00
Source Domain: www.sun-sentinel.com
- A significant majority of Florida voters strongly support the imposition of restrictions on artificial intelligence (AI) due to concerns about its rapid advancement and potential risks, especially to children.
- Governor Ron DeSantis faced a setback as his proposed AI legislation, which included an “AI bill of rights” to regulate AI interactions, especially concerning companion robots and chatbots, failed to pass.
- DeSantis was unable to convince the Florida Legislature to adopt his AI agenda, despite his months-long advocacy, showing a clash of policy, politics, and personality politics.
- Former President Donald Trump and the AI industry oppose state-level AI regulations, lobbying for a hands-off approach and advocating for federal oversight instead.
- Despite broad voter support, the proposed AI regulations did not pass the Florida House of Representatives, partly due to opposition from Speaker Daniel Perez and pressure from the Trump administration against state regulation.
