Ohio Lawmakers Weigh AI Regulations as Trump Executive Order Limits State Authority
Ohio Lawmakers Move to Regulate AI
Ohio lawmakers are preparing to take up a series of artificial intelligence–related bills when the General Assembly reconvenes in the new year, signaling growing concern over how rapidly advancing AI technology should be governed.
The Ohio House Technology and Innovation Committee is expected to review proposed legislation that would prohibit granting legal personhood to artificial intelligence, ban certain AI-generated deepfake videos, and impose penalties on companies that design AI systems that promote harmful behavior.
These discussions will take place amid increasing federal involvement. Earlier this month, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at limiting the ability of individual states to regulate artificial intelligence independently. The order argues that allowing each state to craft its own AI rules could create inconsistent regulatory frameworks that make compliance especially difficult for start-ups and emerging technology companies.
Representative Thad Claggett, a Republican from Licking County and chair of the House Technology and Innovation Committee, said he understands the reasoning behind the executive order but emphasized that Ohio lawmakers will continue their work.
“Our goal is to make sure Ohio becomes a place where the best technology ideas can grow,” Claggett said, adding that the committee does not intend to pause its legislative efforts.
Claggett described artificial intelligence as one of the most transformative—and potentially dangerous—technologies in modern history, likening its rapid adoption to the geopolitical arms race of the Cold War. While he acknowledged the federal government’s desire to maintain a competitive edge, he noted that AI presents unique risks due to its widespread and subtle influence.
According to Claggett, the President would prefer Congress to establish a single national AI policy, an approach he supports in principle. However, he expressed skepticism about Congress’s ability to act quickly enough, prompting Ohio lawmakers to move forward at the state level.
One of the committee’s priorities is clarifying in law that artificial intelligence is not sentient and cannot be recognized as a legal person. Claggett said AI’s ability to simulate human behavior makes this distinction critical to prevent deception and ensure accountability remains with people—not machines.
Another proposal would hold companies accountable if they create AI systems that offer harmful guidance, particularly in sensitive areas such as health or wellness. Claggett stressed that technology providing advice in these fields should be held to ethical standards similar to those applied to human professionals.
The committee is also expected to examine legislation that would prohibit nonconsensual AI-generated deepfake videos that replicate an individual’s appearance or voice. While Claggett supports banning such content, he cautioned lawmakers to strike a balance between enforcement and protecting civil liberties.
In addition to artificial intelligence, the House Technology and Innovation Committee will explore issues related to cryptocurrency and cybersecurity for local governments when hearings resume in February.
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