Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis stated Monday that President Donald Trump’s recent executive order on artificial intelligence does not stop states from creating their own AI regulations. Speaking at an AI-focused event at Florida Atlantic University, DeSantis outlined plans for what he calls a “Citizen Bill of Rights for Artificial Intelligence” to guide the state’s policies.
Trump’s executive order, signed last Thursday, aims to establish a national framework to maintain U.S. leadership in AI while minimizing regulatory burdens on companies. The order notes that excessive state regulation could hinder innovation and indicates that the federal government may pursue legal action or withhold funding from states that conflict with national AI plans. DeSantis emphasized that an executive order cannot override state authority, explaining that preemption of states requires congressional legislation, not unilateral executive action. He added that many of Florida’s proposed measures align with recommendations in the federal order, but regardless, the state has the authority to move forward.