Technology

State prosecutors request federal oversight of artificial intelligence risks

Attorneys general from 23 states warn Congress of national security and infrastructure threats

Updated Sep 26, 2026 · 12:17 UTC2 reports

The short version

Attorneys general from 23 states, Washington, D.C., and American Samoa sent a letter to congressional leaders requesting federal AI safety protocols.[ABC News]
State prosecutors warned that unregulated AI threatens critical infrastructure, national security, and the financial system.[ABC News]
The letter calls for mandatory model safety testing and international coordination on technology development.[ABC News]
Lawmakers remain divided on whether Congress possesses the technical expertise and political will to pass federal oversight.[NBC News · ABC News]

Attorneys general from 23 states, the District of Columbia, and American Samoa signed a joint letter to congressional leaders demanding federal AI regulation.[ABC News]
The state prosecutors asserted that unchecked AI poses risks to critical infrastructure, the financial system, and national security.[ABC News]
The coalition called for federal oversight of model safety testing and international cooperation on AI advancement.[ABC News]
Some members of Congress expressed skepticism over whether lawmakers have the technical expertise needed to effectively regulate the industry.[NBC News]

It remains uncertain whether federal lawmakers have sufficient technical understanding or political consensus to enact AI regulation.[NBC News]
The balance between state authority and federal preemptive oversight in AI regulation is actively debated.[ABC News]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.