Newsom Eyes Special Session or Executive Order on AI Regulation

California governor considers emergency AI action

Gov. Gavin Newsom is exploring options to impose additional artificial intelligence regulations before his term ends in January 2027, including potentially calling a special legislative session or issuing an executive order.

Newsom told Politico on Thursday that his administration is examining "what we can do in the next few weeks — days, weeks, and months," citing the Trump administration's "tendency to do absolutely nothing" on AI regulation. The governor specifically mentioned three potential paths: legislative action, a special session framework, or executive measures.

The consideration comes as public sentiment toward AI has deteriorated sharply. Concerns have centered on job displacement, the technology's substantial water and energy demands for data centers, and existential safety risks. Last week, an Anthropic researcher resigned publicly, claiming both Anthropic and OpenAI were ignoring warning signs that AI could pose an existential threat to humanity within four years.

Why it matters

California's move could establish a regulatory template for other states as the federal government remains largely inactive on AI oversight. With the technology industry concentrated in the state and Newsom positioning himself for a potential 2028 presidential run, California's approach to AI governance may shape both industry standards and national political debates on technology regulation.

Political timing and midterm context

AI regulation has emerged as a central issue in the November midterm elections. Democrats are attempting to leverage voter frustration with the White House's hands-off approach, while President Donald Trump has characterized AI safety concerns as a "hoax."

Newsom has indicated he will decide on a presidential run after the midterms. His positioning on AI regulation appears designed to contrast with federal inaction while appealing to voters concerned about technology's societal impacts.

Previous regulatory actions

The governor signed legislation last year requiring AI companies to report safety incidents to the state. He also signed a law on September 16, 2026, banning the use of AI-generated actors in advertisements without disclosure.

Newsom last convened a special legislative session in 2024 to address high gas prices. The regular legislative session concluded earlier in September, meaning any new AI legislation would require reconvening lawmakers.

The governor told Politico that California must "continue to iterate" and "continue to lead" on AI policy, signaling his administration views the issue as requiring ongoing regulatory attention rather than one-time action.

These details were first reported by The Sacramento Bee's Lia Russell.