State Governments: The Real Battleground for Emerging Tech Policy

‍State Governments: The Real Battleground for Emerging Tech Policy

For companies navigating the evolving regulatory landscape of emerging technologies, all eyes may be on Washington, D.C.—but the real action is happening in state capitals across the country. While Congress remains mired in gridlock, state legislatures are taking decisive action, crafting policies that directly impact how businesses operate in industries such as artificial intelligence, fintech, and blockchain.

The Power Shift to States

Historically, the federal government has led the way in setting regulatory frameworks for new industries, but that model has broken down. Emerging technologies are advancing too quickly, and federal policymakers have been slow to respond. States, however, are not waiting. From California’s AI disclosure laws to Utah’s regulatory sandbox initiatives, individual states are stepping up as the primary venues for policy experimentation and enforcement.

The problem? A fragmented, state-by-state approach to regulation creates complexity for companies operating across multiple jurisdictions. Differing standards and compliance requirements drive up costs, slow innovation, and create legal uncertainty. However, this challenge also presents an opportunity: by engaging at the state level now, companies can help shape policies that will serve as models for broader adoption nationwide.

Why Businesses Must Engage at the State Level

Ignoring state governments is no longer an option for companies in the emerging technology space. Here’s why:

• Regulation is happening now. While Congress debates, state legislatures are passing laws that affect everything from data privacy to algorithmic transparency.
• State policies often set national precedents. Laws first enacted in states like California and New York frequently influence broader national policies, as seen with consumer data protection laws.
• Proactive engagement mitigates risk. Companies that engage early with state policymakers can help shape fair, innovation-friendly regulations rather than react to unfavorable mandates.

Resurgens Strategies: Your Partner in State-Level Advocacy

At Resurgens Strategies, we specialize in helping companies navigate this complex, rapidly evolving landscape. Our expertise goes beyond traditional state-level lobbying. We offer:

• Direct State Advocacy: We work with policymakers in key states to advance client interests and shape sensible regulations.
• Multi-State Coalition Building: Rather than fighting 50 different battles, we help companies align with like-minded businesses to advocate efficiently across multiple jurisdictions.
• Trade Association Formation: When an industry needs a unified voice, we facilitate the creation of trade associations to ensure long-term, coordinated advocacy efforts.

The Bottom Line

In today’s policy environment, companies that wait for federal action will be left behind. The real decisions affecting your business are being made in state capitols right now. Engaging strategically at the state level isn’t just a necessity—it’s an opportunity to lead.

Resurgens Strategies is here to help you navigate this evolving landscape, advocate where it matters most, and build the coalitions needed to influence the future of emerging tech policy. Let’s work together to turn today’s regulatory challenges into tomorrow’s opportunities.

Let’s Talk. If your company is ready to engage where it matters most, reach out today.