Lobbyist appeal to Trump in effort to sway AI policy

Emerging debates over artificial intelligence policy are intensifying as the upcoming transition of power in Washington prompts industry groups to advocate for their preferred regulatory approach.

The big picture: BSA | The Software Alliance, representing major tech companies like OpenAI and Microsoft, has issued recommendations to the incoming Trump administration regarding artificial intelligence regulation and oversight.

• The lobbying group is calling for a comprehensive review of existing AI regulations to identify and remove potential barriers to AI adoption
• BSA emphasizes maintaining international cooperation on AI governance rather than pursuing an isolationist approach
• The organization advocates for a national AI law that would require developers to manage risks and assess impacts of high-risk AI systems

Policy continuity and change: While Trump has pledged to reverse Biden’s executive order on AI, BSA recommends preserving certain Biden-era initiatives.

• The group supports expanding the national AI research pilot program established under Biden
• BSA encourages continued use of the Commerce Department’s risk management framework
• The alliance seeks to balance oversight with innovation by maintaining some existing regulatory structures while reducing others

Broader technology policy agenda: BSA’s recommendations extend beyond AI to encompass various aspects of technology policy and international relations.

• The group advocates for implementing a comprehensive national privacy law
• BSA supports negotiating new international data transfer agreements
• The organization emphasizes the importance of coordinating sanctions and export controls with allies

China strategy and global competition: BSA takes a notably cautious stance on restrictions targeting Chinese technology and investments.

• The group expresses concern about limitations on U.S. companies’ ability to invest in and develop cutting-edge technology globally
• BSA advocates for reviewing Biden-era trade and investment restrictions affecting China
• The organization emphasizes the need for coherent and transparent implementation of any such restrictions across government agencies

Strategic implications: The tech industry’s positioning ahead of the administration change reflects complex tensions between innovation, security, and international cooperation in emerging technologies.