California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order on Friday to position the state as a leader in AI oversight. The order directs the formation of an expert group tasked with providing recommendations within two months on strengthening AI safety measures in state law.
PolicyGavin NewsomState of California
California Governor Newsom Proposes AI "Kill Switch" in New Executive Order
The order suggests several mechanisms for oversight, such as requiring AI companies to embed independent verification groups for regular audits and making transparency reports subject to independent standards. Notably, Newsom is considering a requirement for companies to create a "kill switch" that is routinely verified for effectiveness. The directive also calls for companies to report "loss-of-control incidents" as critical safety events.
In addition to these recommendations, the order directs a state agency to accelerate the implementation of two recent laws regarding AI safety assessment frameworks and a state registry of AI auditors. Newsom characterized the move as a response to the lack of meaningful federal AI accountability, stating that California will act with urgency to establish responsible oversight.
Sources
- Gavin Newsom is pushing for an AI kill switch （The Verge AI, 2026-09-18）