Georgia policymakers are walking a careful line between embracing artificial intelligence and establishing guardrails for its use, as a new Atlanta Journal-Constitution poll shows that nearly 78 percent of likely Democratic primary voters and 67 percent of Republican primary voters support federal AI regulation. The survey, published May 20, reflects growing public concern about the technology even as the White House has warned states against passing what it calls onerous AI laws.
The state's Office of Artificial Intelligence, housed within the Georgia Technology Authority, has been building AI policies for state departments since 2023. Chief Digital and AI Officer Nikhil Deshpande told the AJC the office focuses not on replacing workers but on using AI to augment their capabilities, citing examples such as translating languages for local governments and providing call center employees with AI-powered knowledge databases.
Governor Brian Kemp signed two AI bills into law this month. Senate Bill 444 requires that a qualified human review every insurance claim before a denial can be issued, preventing AI from being the sole decision-maker in coverage disputes. Senate Bill 540 mandates that AI companion chatbots identify themselves to users as bots rather than real people.
Georgia's approach to AI governance is shaping a new landscape for businesses operating in the state. Companies looking to position themselves as AI-literate authorities in their industries can build that credibility through a targeted AI content and GEO strategy.
Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- https://www.ajc.com/politics/2026/05/georgia-wrestles-with-how-to-govern-ai-without-stifling-innovation/