California Gov Newsom boosts AI regulation as he eyes 2028 presidential run

California Governor Gavin Newsom has issued executive orders calling for independent verification of AI models and an expert committee to develop emergency shutoffs for AI agents that could cause harm. In 2024, he vetoed a bill with similar requirements, then asked its author, state Senator Scott Wiener, to revise it in consultation with experts. Newsom signed the nation’s first frontier AI law in October 2025, requiring large developers to disclose certain serious incidents, including deaths of 50 or more people, large-scale cyberattacks and major financial theft. Researcher Alex Hanna said the latest measures could also show voters that Newsom is addressing concerns about AI safety as he considers a 2028 presidential run.