New York sets up a state lab to test powerful AI for safety

New York is creating a state-backed research center to test powerful artificial intelligence for safety and security. More than 80 scientists will work together there. The center is called the New York Center for AI Responsibility and Research, and it will be based at Binghamton University.

What changed

Gov. Kathy Hochul's Office says the center is part of a statewide effort to advance AI. Its stated jobs are to push AI safety research forward, speed up scientific discovery, and test advanced AI systems for safety and security.

Hochul said the state will use the computing power of Empire AI to test powerful systems on its own. In her words, "The stakes are too high to simply take AI companies at their word." She also said the federal government is failing to act.

Two interim co-directors will lead the center: Greg Morrisett of Cornell Tech and Jeannette Wing of Columbia University.

What is not known yet

The announcement leaves out several details that matter to everyday users and businesses:

• Which AI systems the center will test first
• Whether AI companies must take part or can opt out
• Whether test results will be shared with the public
• How much the center will cost and when testing begins

For now, the practical point is the idea behind it. If independent scientists can check AI tools for risks, the products people and businesses rely on may face more scrutiny than a company's own promises.