The White House has stepped in to address the growing patchwork of state-level artificial intelligence laws, signalling a firm move toward federal preemption in a rapidly evolving policy area.

Senior administration officials said the intervention is designed to prevent conflicting state rules from undermining national economic priorities, technological leadership, and regulatory clarity for companies operating across state lines.

The federal action follows the introduction of several state laws seeking to regulate artificial intelligence systems, ranging from transparency requirements to limits on specific uses of automated decision-making.

The administration argues that while states have acted with legitimate concerns in mind, the lack of coordination risks creating regulatory fragmentation that could slow innovation and discourage investment.

Under the White House approach, federal agencies are expected to assert existing authorities and, where necessary, challenge state measures that are seen as incompatible with national objectives.

Officials emphasised that a single, coherent framework would allow the United States to promote responsible AI development while maintaining its competitive edge globally.

The move has intensified debate over the balance of power between federal and state governments, with some state leaders defending their right to regulate emerging technologies within their borders.

The administration, however, maintains that artificial intelligence is a strategic national issue requiring consistent rules and clear leadership from Washington.