The proposed “One Enormous Beautiful Act” aims to prohibit states from regulating artificial intelligence (AI), but public opinion on this measure appears to be largely unfavorable. While the legislation seeks to prevent a patchwork of state-level AI regulations, many voters are expressing reservations about such a sweeping ban.
By
Rebecca Ruiz
Rebecca Ruiz
Senior Technology Correspondent
Rebecca Ruiz is a seasoned journalist specializing in mental health, digital culture, and emerging technologies. Her reporting covers critical issues such as AI safety, online privacy, and youth well-being. Prior to her role at Mashable, Rebecca contributed to NBC News Digital and Forbes, bringing extensive experience in investigative journalism. She holds a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and a master’s degree from UC Berkeley’s Graduate School of Journalism.
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Supporters Celebrate the “One Enormous Beautiful Bill” with AI Regulation Ban
In the upcoming week, U.S. senators are expected to debate and potentially pass the “One Enormous Beautiful Bill,” which includes a controversial provision to halt all state-level AI regulations for ten years. Advocates argue that this freeze is necessary to keep American tech companies competitive globally, citing concerns over deepfakes, online fraud, and youth safety. However, opposition voices warn that such a broad ban could do more harm than good, especially since federal protections are currently lacking.
A recent survey indicates that the majority of American voters oppose this legislative approach. Conducted in mid-May by Echelon Insights for Common Sense Media, the poll surveyed 1,022 registered voters nationwide. The results reveal widespread skepticism about a decade-long moratorium on AI regulation.
According to the survey, 59% of respondents oppose the bill, with opposition among Republicans reaching 50%, compared to only 31% support within the same group. Regardless of political affiliation, most participants agreed that Congress should not prevent states from establishing their own online safety and privacy laws for minors.
Furthermore, 53% of those surveyed expressed greater trust in local and state officials over federal lawmakers when it comes to regulating AI responsibly. Only 15% favored federal politicians and regulators, while the remaining respondents were undecided about whom they trusted more.
Kristen Soltis Anderson, a partner at Echelon Insights, commented on the findings: “The data clearly shows that voters are concerned about the potential risks AI-generated content poses to children and teenagers. They prefer that states retain the authority to implement protective measures rather than have the federal government impose a blanket ban.”
Recently, Common Sense Media, along with organizations like Fairplay and the Center for Humane Technology, urged congressional leaders to oppose the AI moratorium included in the Republican-led budget proposal. In an open letter, the coalition warned that eliminating all existing and future state AI laws without establishing new federal safeguards would benefit tech companies at the expense of public safety and accountability.
California has introduced two bills aimed at regulating AI platforms, especially those targeting youth. One of these measures specifically prohibits the use of AI in ways that could manipulate or emotionally influence minors, such as through chatbots designed to foster attachment or mimic human interaction.
Overall, public opinion underscores a strong desire for responsible AI oversight. Over 90% of survey participants expressed concern about minors being exposed to highly sexualized or otherwise inappropriate AI-generated content online, highlighting the importance of safeguarding youth in the digital age.
