President Donald Trump’s executive order challenges state-level artificial intelligence laws across the U.S., including recent legislation in Montana. Montana lawmakers have enacted several AI-related laws, addressing generative AI, election integrity, and state government operations. Despite the federal order, Montana legislators emphasize the significance of local governance and caution against overreactions.
“They voted for us to go to the legislature and pass laws that are in their best interest,” stated Rep. Jill Cohenour, a Helena Democrat and bill sponsor. The order directs the U.S. Attorney’s Office to review state AI laws, asserting a national framework to maintain U.S. global AI leadership. It warns that some state laws could hinder innovation.
The order also affects the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, initiated under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to improve nationwide internet access. This program has allocated significant federal funds to Montana, addressing connectivity issues despite challenges such as infrastructure delays.
Under Trump, the program has awarded major contracts, including in Montana, to companies like Amazon and SpaceX for satellite internet. These companies extensively utilize AI technologies. The federal review’s impact on specific Montana AI laws remains uncertain, and the state Department of Administration has not commented.
State Sen. Daniel Zolnikov, a Billings Republican, advises patience, suggesting that concerns over state laws being overridden might be premature. Critics, including the Alliance for Secure AI, argue that potential cuts to BEAD funds could pressure states to comply with federal AI regulations.
Concerns about federal preemption of state AI laws persist, with a recent letter signed by 280 state lawmakers urging Congress not to limit state legislatures’ capabilities in the National Defense Authorization Act. This moratorium was removed from the defense bill, which passed. The letter, supported by Montana politicians, highlights the importance of local AI regulation to address online harms and AI’s growing influence.
In Montana, several non-controversial AI laws were enacted with bipartisan support. These include Senate Bill 212, creating the Right to Compute Act, and House Bill 514, establishing image rights. Another bill, House Bill 178, limits AI use by local and state governments.
Montana also aims to curb AI election deepfakes through Senate Bill 25. Sen. Shane Morigeau, a Missoula Democrat, emphasizes protecting Montanans and maintaining local control, while welcoming collaboration with federal resources.
“It’s not like we want to stop advancements and technology by any means,” Morigeau told the Daily Montanan. “It’s just about making sure that it’s not the Wild West.”
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