California’s tech-loving legislators just pulled the ultimate plot twist in AI regulation, and surprise, surprise – big tech wins again.

In a move that would make even the most jaded techbro smirk, lawmakers effectively gutted several proposed bills aimed at protecting consumers from AI-manipulated pricing. What was supposed to be a crackdown on predatory pricing algorithms turned into a tech industry free-for-all.

The Great AI Price Manipulation Escape

Three bills that would have reined in AI’s ability to set prices for everything from apartment rentals to groceries were either killed or severely neutered during the suspense file process. Essentially, the legislative equivalent of a corporate get-out-of-jail-free card just got stamped.

Data Center Drama

As if price manipulation wasn’t frustrating enough, lawmakers also killed a bill that would have required data centers to disclose their energy consumption. Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan’s attempt to make tech giants transparent about their electricity gobbling was unceremoniously shown the door.

A Glimmer of Hope?

It wasn’t all bad news. Some tech regulation survived, including bills protecting workers from AI surveillance and preventing AI from making employment decisions. There’s also hope for protecting kids from potentially harmful AI interactions, with several bills targeting companion bots and online safety.

While the tech industry celebrates another win, consumers are left wondering when meaningful AI regulation will actually happen. Stay tuned, because this legislative rollercoaster is far from over.