White House Pushes Utah Lawmaker to Kill AI Safety Bill

The White House is leaning hard on Utah Republican State Rep. Doug Fiefia to ditch HB 286 — a bill targeting AI transparency and children's safety online. The legislation mirrors California's existing AI law.

Sources familiar with the situation told Axios that the pressure campaign is aimed squarely at killing the bill before it gains traction. HB 286 would impose transparency requirements on AI systems, with a particular focus on protecting minors.

The move signals the administration's stance on state-level AI regulation — apparently not a fan. Utah joining California in the AI oversight club would set a precedent other states might follow.

For now, it's a political tug-of-war between federal influence and state legislative ambition. Whether Fiefia bends or holds firm could shape the next wave of AI regulation nationwide.