US President Donald Trump is preparing to sign a sweeping executive order that would allow artificial intelligence (AI) companies to operate under a single national regulatory framework, bypassing individual state-level approval processes. According to officials familiar with the development, the order aims to streamline AI deployment across the country and prevent what the Trump team describes as “regulatory fragmentation.”
The proposed “one-rule” system would give the federal government full authority over AI standards, safety requirements, and licensing. This means companies would no longer need to seek separate approvals from states, many of which have recently introduced their own AI transparency and safety laws.
Supporters of the move argue that a unified national rule will accelerate technological innovation, attract investment, and strengthen America’s position in the global AI race. They say tech companies have long complained that navigating dozens of different state regulations slows down development.
However, critics warn the order could weaken oversight, reduce accountability, and give too much power to federal agencies aligned with the presidency. Several state governors have already voiced concerns that the plan would undermine states’ rights and limit their ability to protect citizens from potential AI misuse.
The Trump team says details of the executive order will be released soon, with implementation expected to begin early next year if the policy faces no major legal challenges.