OpenAI proposes state-led framework to guide federal AI safety policy

OpenAI has outlined a governance approach it terms 'reverse federalism,' where state-level AI laws serve as a foundation for developing national AI safety policies. The company argues this model would enable more democratic and adaptive regulation by allowing states to pilot rules that could later inform federal standards. In a policy post, OpenAI frames this as a way to build a cohesive, nationwide framework for AI safety while preserving flexibility for localized experimentation.

The proposal comes as U.S. policymakers increasingly focus on AI governance, with both state and federal governments exploring regulatory measures. OpenAI suggests that this 'reverse federalism' approach could help avoid a one-size-fits-all policy that stifles innovation or fails to address regional differences in AI adoption and risk.