Rep. Cockley, House Tech & Innovation Committee Urge Ohio Senators to Oppose Federal Ban on State AI Regulation

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Christine Cockley (D-Columbus) this month, with fellow members of the Ohio House Technology and Innovation Committee, sent a letter to U.S. Senators Bernie Moreno and Jon Husted, urging them to oppose language in H.R. 1, also known as the Big Beautiful Bill, that would ban states from regulating artificial intelligence (AI).

The letter, signed by committee members from both parties, emphasizes the importance of preserving state-level flexibility in regulating AI as its real-world impact grows. It also highlights the committee’s ongoing bipartisan efforts to engage with stakeholders and experts to craft responsible, localized AI policy for Ohio.

“Artificial intelligence is already transforming lives in Ohio, and our constituents deserve meaningful input on how it’s regulated. This ban unjustly takes that voice away, leaving Ohioans powerless in decisions that impact their future,” said Rep. Cockley.

The committee has spent months working to better understand the risks and opportunities AI poses to Ohioans. Members believe that a one-size-fits-all federal approach would hinder the ability of state legislators to respond effectively and responsibly to this rapidly evolving technology.

“Despite our diverse perspectives and political affiliations, we stand united in our opposition to this provision,” the letter states. “Because AI increasingly impacts the very same areas states are already responsible for, it is essential that we maintain the authority to respond to these challenges with the flexibility needed.”

You can watch the House Technology and Innovation Committee meetings here.