Last week, Internet Works hosted a policy roundtable during the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Legislative Summit in Chicago. Featuring representatives from Middle Tech companies, state lawmakers from across the country, and tech policy thought leaders, this discussion brought together legislators and Middle Tech on key policy issues. This event exemplified our longstanding commitment to moving beyond defensive lobbying, helping lawmakers to craft right-sized legislation.
This discussion included notable figures in the technology space, such as Dawit Kahsai, the Senior Public Policy Lead at Pinterest, Edward Palmieri, Roblox’s Senior Director for Public Policy, Fathom’s Senior Director for AI Policy Lauren Wilson, Expedia Group’s Director of Government Affairs Paul Seago, and State Senators Willie Preston (D-IL), Sue Rezin (R-IL), and Matthew Ball (D-CO).
The discussion was moderated by Internet Works Executive Director Peter Chandler and brought together policy makers and industry officials to learn more about the opportunities they see in the current tech landscape.
This conversation also touched on the topics of competition, kids’ online safety, participants’ experiences with artificial intelligence, and how tech companies can support policymakers in developing safe, effective laws to protect consumers and preserve competition in the tech industry. Internet Works has continuously underscored the importance of creating legislation that recognizes the different realities of small, and big tech companies, urging the implementation of “right-sized” regulatory tech policy. This approach promotes further innovation, protects freedom of expression, and maintains consumer choice.
The evening concluded with a “Middle Tech Mixer” with industry leaders, tech policy stakeholders, and state officials in celebration of our ongoing collaboration. We appreciate the time and insights everyone contributed to this event, and we look forward to facilitating more opportunities to work together in the future. Thank you to our sponsors Fathom and Roblox, and hosts Expedia Group, Pinterest and eBay!
