Troutman Pepper Locke State Attorneys General Team

One of many provisions in the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, would place a 10-year “temporary pause” on states’ ability to regulate artificial intelligence (AI). Initially called a moratorium, Senate Republicans changed the characterization of the prohibition to ensure the provision’s passage during the reconciliation process. The changes were at least partially successful, as the proposed “temporary pause” overcame a procedural hurdle when the Senate parliamentarian concluded that it satisfies the “Byrd Rule” and may remain in the bill. The bill now heads to the Senate floor. If enacted, the temporary pause would mark the most significant federal action (or inaction) related to AI.

In a closely contested Democratic primary held on Tuesday, June 17, Virginia state delegate Jay Jones narrowly defeated Henrico County Commonwealth’s Attorney Shannon Taylor in the race for attorney general. This outcome sets the stage for a November election against Republican incumbent Jason Miyares, who advanced unopposed from his primary.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia recently enjoined Texas Attorney General (AG) Ken Paxton from enforcing a pre-litigation subpoena issued to Media Matters for America (Media Matters). The subpoena is related to the Texas AG’s investigation into Media Matters arising out of allegations that the company fraudulently manipulated data after it reported about brand advertisement concerns on X.

Nevada Attorney General (AG) Aaron D. Ford recently announced that the State of Nevada and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) have filed a suit against IYOVIA. IYOVIA currently operates under the brand names IM Mastery Academy, iMarketsLive, and IM Academy (collectively, “IML”) and is accused of falsely promising significant income through trading in various financial markets and through a multi-level marketing scheme.

Maryland Attorney General (AG) Anthony G. Brown recently announced three settlements with real estate and property management companies, resulting in more than $310,000 in combined civil penalties and restitution. Brown alleged that the property management and real estate companies discriminated against various tenants that utilized housing vouchers or had criminal records, in violation of federal and state fair housing laws.

On May 27, Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon announced the appointment of Ryan Schelhaas as interim attorney general (AG). Schelhaas succeeds AG Bridget Hill, who will join the Wyoming Supreme Court as its newest justice. Governor Mark Gordon has indicated he plans to nominate Schelhaas as the permanent replacement, enabling him to serve the remainder of the term as the state’s attorney general.

On April 29, Michigan Attorney General (AG) Dana Nessel filed a lawsuit against Roku, Inc. (Roku), the smart TV and device provider and streaming service, alleging that Roku collects and monetizes personal data from children without proper parental consent in violation of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and other laws, including the Video Privacy Protection Act (VPPA) and the Michigan Consumer Protection Act.

New York Attorney General (AG) Letitia James’ office has reached a cumulative total of $3.2 million in settlements with eight Nissan dealerships that the office accuses of overcharging New Yorkers for purchasing leased vehicles at the conclusion of their lease term.