President Donald Trump’s recent executive order challenges state-level artificial intelligence (AI) laws, including those passed in Montana this year, by calling for a national framework to maintain U.S. AI dominance and labeling some state laws as overly restrictive. The order also targets the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, which funds internet access improvements in Montana and involves contracts with AI-embracing companies like Amazon and SpaceX. Montana legislators caution against overreacting, emphasizing the importance of local control and expressing concern that federal preemption could stifle state innovation and responsiveness to AI-related issues.

Montana has enacted bipartisan AI legislation addressing generative AI, election security, and government use, with broad support and ongoing studies into AI policy. Lawmakers like Rep. Jill Cohenour and Sen. Shane Morigeau stress that state laws reflect constituent needs and warn that federal interference could discourage proactive state regulation. Despite federal efforts to limit state AI laws, many state politicians advocate for preserving democratic debate and tailored solutions to AI’s challenges, highlighting the need for cooperation that respects state autonomy while advancing technology responsibly.