Assemblymember Steven Raga Co-Sponsors Landmark RAISE Act to Regulate Artificial Intelligence

New York State Assemblymember Steven Raga has co-sponsored the Responsible Artificial Intelligence Safety and Education (RAISE) Act, a pioneering piece of legislation aimed at establishing strong safety standards and regulatory oversight for advanced artificial intelligence systems. The bill successfully passed the State Assembly this week, positioning New York as a national leader in responsible AI governance.

The RAISE Act introduces mandatory safety protocols for developers of large-scale AI models, including transparency reports, independent audits, and defined standards to prevent potential large-scale harm. The measure specifically targets so-called “frontier AI” systems—advanced models with exceptionally high computing costs and capabilities—requiring companies to demonstrate that their systems will not pose significant risks to public safety.

Assemblymember Raga, who has been vocal about the need for proactive AI legislation, joined over 30 of his colleagues in supporting the bill, alongside lead sponsor Assemblymember Alex Bores. The legislation reflects growing bipartisan concern about the potential dangers posed by powerful AI systems if left unregulated.

The RAISE Act is part of a broader effort to ensure that New York not only embraces innovation but also leads in protecting its residents from emerging technological risks. It requires companies to make critical information about their AI systems public, while setting penalties for failure to comply.

The bill now advances to the State Senate for further deliberation. If approved by the Senate and signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, the RAISE Act will represent one of the most comprehensive state-level frameworks for AI regulation in the country.

With his co-sponsorship, Assemblymember Raga reinforces his commitment to responsible innovation, consumer protection, and preparing New York for the evolving challenges of artificial intelligence.