Illinois sets new safety rules for major AI developers

Illinois has enacted the Artificial Intelligence Safety Measures Act, creating some of the toughest state-level rules for AI developers. The law requires large AI developers to publish their safety practices and report significant safety incidents that could harm the state within 72 hours of identifying them. Incidents involving an imminent risk of death or serious injury must be reported within 24 hours.

The measure also requires developers to undergo regular safety reviews by independent third-party auditors. Fines for a first offense can reach up to $1 million, with penalties rising to up to $3 million for additional violations.

Illinois joins California and New York as the only states requiring these audits and transparency reports. Democratic political consultant Dave Heller called the law a strong example of state action in the absence of congressional action, while former Rock Island County Republican party chair Bill Bloom said its impact will depend on implementation and the auditors conducting the reviews.