Speaking from Tampa, the governor unveiled this new legislative effort, which aims to implement robust measures surrounding the use of AI. Recognizing the transformative power of this swiftly advancing technology, DeSantis is advocating for protective measures to ensure it does not negatively impact individuals.

“This legislation is about preventing technology from spiraling out of control in ways that could harm people,” DeSantis stated. “AI is a reality, and it is going to have a profound effect on people’s lives.”

The proposed legislation includes provisions for parental controls and enhanced security protocols for personal information, underscoring the need for vigilance as AI becomes increasingly integrated into daily life.

The new proposal includes parental controls and safeguards to keep personal information secure.

“We believe that there should be transparency to consumers and that there should be a notice that they are acting with artificial intelligence,” DeSantis said.

DeSantis believes President Trump’s executive order limiting certain state-level AI regulations does not prevent Florida from moving forward with its own consumer safeguards and protections.

“We anticipate that this will be something we will have to pay attention to,” John Licato, an associate professor at USF, said.

Licato runs an AI tech startup supported by Embarc Collective.

“A lot of technology that is making drug discovery and health care more discoverable and affordable is also covered by AI. So, we don’t want to restrict that, and we want to be careful that we don’t overregulate that,” Licato said. 

Licato said companies can add additional guardrails, but all must meet the same baseline standards.

“We always have to be aware of the ethical constraints that we’re bounded by, and those are arguably clearer than the legal constraints,” Licato said.

Gov. DeSantis’ plan also targets hyperscale AI data centers. The proposal makes sure Floridians aren’t paying for them and safeguards local control and Florida’s natural resources.