Tom Steyer’s Proposal to Protect California Workers From AI
Billionaire Tom Steyer, a candidate for governor of California, has introduced a new proposal aimed at safeguarding workers from the economic impact of artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative is part of a broader set of AI policy measures that Steyer released in March.
The plan seeks to establish “good-paying” jobs for workers who may be displaced by technological advancements. To finance this, Steyer plans to build on his previous proposal to implement a “token tax” from tech companies. This tax would levy a minuscule fee on every unit of data processed for AI purposes. The revenue generated from these taxes would fund the Golden State Sovereign Wealth Fund, with portions allocated towards projects such as housing development, healthcare improvements, and modernizing California’s energy infrastructure.
The memo accompanying Steyer’s proposal states that the initiative aims to “strengthen the foundation of the state’s economy,” invest in communities, and create beautiful public spaces. It also mentions plans for training and apprenticeship programs across California to support this vision. In addition, the plan intends to expand unemployment insurance benefits and establish an AI Worker Protection Administration (AIWPA) that would include representatives from unions, academia, and technology sectors to protect workers’ rights.
“Many people in California are worried about losing their jobs due to AI,” Steyer told WIRED. “We believe this can be a transformative technology, but we want to ensure no one is left behind.”
This proposal comes amidst growing concerns from lawmakers and industry leaders about the potential job losses resulting from widespread AI adoption in the workforce.
In New Jersey, state senator Troy Singleton recently proposed legislation requiring companies that replace workers with AI technology to contribute funds for retraining those employees. In Congress, there are several proposals for grants and tax credits aimed at helping existing employees acquire skills needed for an AI-driven economy.
While Steyer’s proposal builds on ideas previously discussed by other experts in the field, such as Dario Amodei of Anthropic and OpenAI’s suggestion of a public wealth fund, his plan differs notably with its specific focus on California and its unique approach to funding through taxes on tech companies.
Steyer’s announcement follows that of Xavier Becerra, a Democratic primary opponent for governor. Becerra’s proposal includes workforce investment and transition support but does not specify how the funds will be allocated.
The White House has expressed concerns about states regulating AI technologies, with President Trump signing an executive order in December threatening federal funding cuts to states that implement what they consider “onerous” regulations on AI. This dynamic is evident even at local levels, where a super PAC backed by Silicon Valley executives has targeted candidates for their stance on AI regulation.
Steyer sees the lack of regulation as unacceptable: “Not regulating AI doesn’t seem remotely reasonable,” he says. “But if California wants to lead in this area, we need to have a vision that includes something that benefits everyone.”
Key Takeaways
- The proposal by Tom Steyer aims to protect workers from the economic impacts of AI.
- Funding for his plan would be generated through a “token tax” on tech companies processing data.
- The initiative includes measures like expanding unemployment insurance and establishing an AI Worker Protection Administration (AIWPA).
Originally published at wired.com. Curated by AI Maestro.
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