New York launches first state run AI testing program to check company claims

Governor Kathy Hochul launched a state run program in New York to independently test artificial intelligence models.

The initiative moves away from relying on AI companies to self regulate by using independent researchers to evaluate the systems. The New York Center for AI Responsibility and Research at Binghamton University will manage the testing. More than 80 scientists from New York will work on the project using computing power from Empire AI, a public private partnership worth $500 million.

These researchers will analyze risks and provide evidence to help public officials make decisions about how to use AI in fields like medicine and scientific discovery. The program faces a limitation because it can only study models that companies share publicly. Under the RAISE Act, large developers must register with the state by January 1, 2027. From that date, these companies must provide safety frameworks and transparency reports and report critical safety incidents within 72 hours.