Meta has launched a new super Political Action Committee (PAC) aimed at combating what it perceives as burdensome AI and technology policy legislation at the state level. The initiative, named the American Technology Excellence Project, signifies a significant investment by the social media giant to influence state-level politics and shape the future of AI development and regulation across the United States.
Key Takeaways
- Meta has launched a super PAC called the American Technology Excellence Project.
- The PAC will focus on electing state candidates who support AI development and the U.S. technology industry.
- Meta is investing "tens of millions" into this initiative.
- The move comes as state legislatures are becoming a primary battleground for tech policy.
Meta’s Strategic Move Against State-Level Regulation
Meta’s newly formed super PAC, the American Technology Excellence Project, is designed to counter a growing wave of state-level tech policy bills. According to Meta spokesperson Rachel Holland, the company is injecting "tens of millions" into the project. The PAC will be managed by veteran Republican operative Brian Baker and the Democratic consulting firm Hilltop Public Solutions, indicating a bipartisan approach to its operations. Its primary goal is to elect state candidates from both major parties who align with Meta’s vision for technology policy.
Pillars of the American Technology Excellence Project
Meta has outlined three core pillars for the American Technology Excellence Project. Firstly, it aims to promote and defend U.S. technology companies and their leadership. Secondly, the PAC will advocate for continued progress and innovation in artificial intelligence. Finally, it intends to empower parents by giving them more control over how their children interact with online applications and AI technologies. Meta believes that poorly crafted state-level proposals, with over 1,100 introduced this year alone, could hinder America’s competitive edge against China in the AI race.
Broader Industry Trends in Tech Policy
Meta’s initiative is part of a larger trend within the tech industry to influence regulatory landscapes. Last month, Meta also launched a PAC specifically for California races, pledging substantial funds to support tech-friendly candidates. Furthermore, venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) and OpenAI president Greg Brockman announced a $100 million PAC dedicated to opposing strict AI regulation. While tech lobbyists have historically been effective in Washington D.C., where congressional gridlock often benefits their cause, the statehouse environment presents a different challenge, as bills can often pass more readily.
Meta VP of Public Policy Brian Rice stated, "Amid a growing patchwork of inconsistent regulations that threaten homegrown innovation and investments in AI, state lawmakers are uniquely positioned to ensure that America remains a global technology leader." He added that the effort is to support candidates who "embrace AI development, champion the U.S. technology industry, and defend American tech leadership at home and abroad."
Key Takeaways
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