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Read Full Article »How State Tech Policies in 2024 Set the Stage for 2025
Discussion Points
- The Rise of State Governments in Tech Policy: How is the increasing involvement of state governments in tech policy affecting civil liberties and individual rights? What are the implications of this shift on the federal government's role in regulating technology?
- The Impact of Partisan Control on Tech Regulations: How does the presence of "trifecta" governments, where one party controls both chambers of the legislature and the governorship, influence the passage of tech-related bills? Is this a positive or negative development for civil liberties?
- Global Implications of State-Level Tech Policy: As state governments in various countries begin to take a more active role in regulating technology, how might this impact international cooperation and conflict on issues related to online governance and digital rights?
Summary
The EFF highlights the growing importance of state governments in tech policy, as they increasingly drive legislation on issues like biometric data regulation, AI use, and online child safety. The 2024 report by NYU's Center on Technology Policy reveals a historic year for state tech policy, with a significant increase in bills passed across 46 states.
Trifecta governments, where one party controls all branches of state government, have played a majoole in pushing through these regulations. As the federal government lags behind, civil liberties groups like EFF urge caution and advocacy to ensure that individual rights are protected in the face of rapidly evolving tech landscapes.