AI Act: Will the AI regulation be delayed?

The implementation timeline of the European Union's Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) faces potential delays, as some companies are requesting an extension to the enforcement deadline. This request comes as the development of crucial technical standards, essential for businesses to comply with the new regulations, lags behind schedule, potentially disrupting the Act's phased rollout. Organizations such as European Digital Rights (EDRi) have voiced strong opposition to any postponement. The AI Act, adopted in August 2024, is set to be implemented in stages, with some provisions already in effect. Key regulations, including those concerning high-risk AI systems, are slated to become fully enforceable from August 2, 2026. However, industry representatives are now advocating for a delay, citing insufficient time to adapt to the new standards, which are still under development. The industry's plea for delay, known as the "Stop the Clock" initiative, highlights the need for finalized standards. Companies like IBM suggest the standards might not be ready until the end of 2026. Some industry groups, including the Federation of German Industries (BDI) and Siemens, are seeking a two-year extension. Such a delay would push the full implementation date to August 2, 2028. While a delay is under consideration, some suggest a temporary "pause" in enforcement, maintaining the original timeline without imposing penalties for non-compliance. Civil society groups argue such a delay would undermine the EU's credibility. The evolving situation underscores the complexities of balancing innovation and regulation in the rapidly developing field of artificial intelligence.