New York Governor Signs RAISE Act for Strict AI Regulation

New York Governor Kathy Hochul officially signed the RAISE Act into law on December 19–20, 2025, establishing some of the strictest rules for the AI industry in the US. Despite a recent presidential executive order opposing local regulatory initiatives, New York chose to act independently. The law mandates that developers of "high-risk" AI systems submit detailed safety plans, undergo independent audits, and report any incidents.

This move positions New York as a key hub of regulatory resistance, setting a precedent for other states dissatisfied with federal laissez-faire policies. Tech giants have expressed concern that the new requirements will complicate business operations and slow innovation. However, supporters argue that transparency and accountability are critical to protecting citizens from discrimination and algorithmic errors. The RAISE Act takes effect immediately, forcing companies to urgently revise their compliance protocols.

Source: The Wall Street Journal