Illinois and California Accelerate AI Safety Rules Through Executive Orders

Summary

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and California Governor Gavin Newsom issued executive orders within four days to address risks associated with unchecked frontier AI models. Illinois will create an Artificial Intelligence Cabinet made up of state agency leaders and experts from academia, law, ethics, and governance. The cabinet will advise on AI-related incidents, safeguards for public assets and infrastructure, and additional accountability measures. Pritzker’s order builds on the 2026 Illinois AI Safety Measures Act, which requires independent third-party safety audits. California’s order convenes experts to produce guidance within two months on strengthening the state’s AI safety and security laws. Proposals include independent safety plans for frontier AI companies and emergency shutoff systems for frontier models. The order also advances the creation of independent verification organizations, moving the deadline for related requirements from January 1, 2028, to May 1, 2027. California agencies must deliver potential legal amendments within eight weeks, including independent verification of safety filings, onsite audits, verified kill switches, and broader reporting of loss-of-control incidents. The measures build on California laws creating an IVO framework and a registry and standards for AI auditors.