Governor Hochul Raises Campaign Funds Amid Pending A.I. Regulation Decision

New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s campaign has received close to $250,000 from donors connected to a pending artificial intelligence (A.I.) bill. The funds arrived as she decides whether to sign the legislation, which would create new rules for the A.I. industry in the state. The bill’s primary sponsor, State Senator Kevin Thomas, hosted a fundraiser for the governor last week. The event collected donations from technology executives, investors, and others with a direct interest in the proposed law. The legislation aims to curb deceptive uses of A.I. in political campaigns. It would also require clear disclosure when A.I. generates certain media, a practice known as "deepfakes." Governor Hochul has not indicated how she will act on the bill. She has until the end of the year to sign it, veto it, or seek changes. A spokesperson stated the governor reviews all legislation based on its merits.