Michael Barba

An <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/23/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-chris-larsen-grant-funding/">embattled anti-crime nonprofit</a> entrusted with millions of taxpayer dollars from San Francisco police coffers fired its executive director Wednesday morning and is temporarily shutting down after finding a lack of funds in its bank accounts and discovering possible check forgery, officials told The Standard.

Crypto boss who gave $1.8M to San Francisco crime nonprofit wants audit of &#8216;discrepancies&#8217;

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An <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/23/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-chris-larsen-grant-funding/">embattled anti-crime nonprofit</a> entrusted with millions of taxpayer dollars from San Francisco police coffers fired its executive director Wednesday morning and is temporarily shutting down after finding a lack of funds in its bank accounts and discovering possible check forgery, officials told The Standard.

Kyra Worthy, the executive director of San Francisco SAFE, the longtime nonprofit arm of the San Francisco Police Department, was dismissed from her duties by the board of directors for the charity Wednesday morning, according to an attorney for the nonprofit, Dylan Hackett. The nonprofit is also “ceasing operations for the time being,” Hackett said.

Kyra Worthy, the executive director of San Francisco SAFE, the longtime nonprofit arm of the San Francisco Police Department, was dismissed from her duties by the board of directors for the charity Wednesday morning, according to an attorney for the nonprofit, Dylan Hackett. The nonprofit is also “ceasing operations for the time being,” Hackett said.

The decision comes on the heels of revelations that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/18/san-francisco-police-wrongly-paid-nonprofit-79k-for-lavish-expenses-report-finds/">SF SAFE improperly billed SFPD for at least $79,000 in expenses</a>—including luxury gift boxes, valet parking and a Lake Tahoe trip—and is also allegedly in debt by at least $1.2 million to various vendors who performed work for the organization.

Limo rides, a Tahoe trip and luxury gifts: San Francisco police wrongly paid for it all

The decision comes on the heels of revelations that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/18/san-francisco-police-wrongly-paid-nonprofit-79k-for-lavish-expenses-report-finds/">SF SAFE improperly billed SFPD for at least $79,000 in expenses</a>—including luxury gift boxes, valet parking and a Lake Tahoe trip—and is also allegedly in debt by at least $1.2 million to various vendors who performed work for the organization.

SF SAFE’s board of directors initially voted Tuesday night to put Worthy on paid leave, according to Hackett and the president of the board, Dan Lawson. However, the board decided to temporarily shut down operations and fire Worthy on Wednesday morning in light of “new information,” Hackett said.

SF SAFE’s board of directors initially voted Tuesday night to put Worthy on paid leave, according to Hackett and the president of the board, Dan Lawson. However, the board decided to temporarily shut down operations and fire Worthy on Wednesday morning in light of “new information,” Hackett said.

While Lawson and Hackett initially declined to provide details about that new information, Lawson confirmed Wednesday afternoon that they were investigating possible check forgery and insufficient funds in bank accounts that were supposed to be used to pay staff.

While Lawson and Hackett initially declined to provide details about that new information, Lawson confirmed Wednesday afternoon that they were investigating possible check forgery and insufficient funds in bank accounts that were supposed to be used to pay staff.

&#8220;We found what looked like there was a lack of funds, and so that’s why we had to stop operations,&#8221; Lawson said.

"We found what looked like there was a lack of funds, and so that’s why we had to stop operations," Lawson said.

&#8220;We found what looked like there was a lack of funds, and so that’s why we had to stop operations,&#8221; Lawson said.

While all checks over $5,000 by the nonprofit need to be signed by both Worthy and the treasurer of the nonprofit, Hackett said one check was signed only by Worthy.

While all checks over $5,000 by the nonprofit need to be signed by both Worthy and the treasurer of the nonprofit, Hackett said one check was signed only by Worthy.

Lawson said the nonprofit had reported the discrepancies to SFPD and would cooperate with law enforcement.

Lawson said the nonprofit had reported the discrepancies to SFPD and would cooperate with law enforcement.

Lawson said he was “very concerned and disappointed” about the situation.

Lawson said he was “very concerned and disappointed” about the situation.

“We all were committed to the community and building trust in the community to help prevent crime, and here we are, engulfed in distrust,” Lawson said.

“We all were committed to the community and building trust in the community to help prevent crime, and here we are, engulfed in distrust,” Lawson said.

Lawson asked for the public to have patience and understand that SF SAFE “generally speaking has served the community well.”

Lawson asked for the public to have patience and understand that SF SAFE “generally speaking has served the community well.”

He said he hoped the nonprofit would reorganize soon.

He said he hoped the nonprofit would reorganize soon.

An attempt to reach Worthy for comment was not successful.

An attempt to reach Worthy for comment was not successful.

Donor Raises Alarm About How Funds Were Spent

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-donor-raises-alarm-about-how-funds-were-spent">Donor Raises Alarm About How Funds Were Spent</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-donor-raises-alarm-about-how-funds-were-spent">Donor Raises Alarm About How Funds Were Spent</h2>

Worthy’s tenure was first called into question last Thursday when the Controller’s Office released a report finding that the nonprofit had spent police dollars in ways that it shouldn’t have, including on the nearly $15,000 staff trip to Lake Tahoe and on parking and ride-hailing expenses for Worthy.&nbsp;

Worthy’s tenure was first called into question last Thursday when the Controller’s Office released a report finding that the nonprofit had spent police dollars in ways that it shouldn’t have, including on the nearly $15,000 staff trip to Lake Tahoe and on parking and ride-hailing expenses for Worthy.&nbsp;

While the report identified at least $79,000 in expenses wrongly reimbursed by San Francisco police, the controller projected that the total amount of improper or excessive spending by SF SAFE was “likely significantly higher.”

While the report identified at least $79,000 in expenses wrongly reimbursed by San Francisco police, the controller projected that the total amount of improper or excessive spending by SF SAFE was “likely significantly higher.”

The report also knocked the SFPD for dispersing some $3.8 million of the $5.3 million that it reimbursed SF SAFE for expenses between July 2018 and March 2023 without checking for receipts. The funding was mostly for “crime prevention education services,” according to the report.

The report also knocked the SFPD for dispersing some $3.8 million of the $5.3 million that it reimbursed SF SAFE for expenses between July 2018 and March 2023 without checking for receipts. The funding was mostly for “crime prevention education services,” according to the report.

The scathing report was followed by revelations Tuesday by The Standard that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/23/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-chris-larsen-grant-funding/">crypto billionaire Chris Larsen also had concerns about how SF SAFE spent as much as $1 million of the $1.8 million</a> in grant funds that he gave the nonprofit to expand the use of security cameras in the city.

The scathing report was followed by revelations Tuesday by The Standard that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/23/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-chris-larsen-grant-funding/">crypto billionaire Chris Larsen also had concerns about how SF SAFE spent as much as $1 million of the $1.8 million</a> in grant funds that he gave the nonprofit to expand the use of security cameras in the city.

A company that SF SAFE hired to install and maintain the cameras, Applied Video Solutions, told The Standard that the nonprofit owed the firm between $600,000 and $1 million, approximately, for past work.

A company that SF SAFE hired to install and maintain the cameras, Applied Video Solutions, told The Standard that the nonprofit owed the firm between $600,000 and $1 million, approximately, for past work.

But the problems at SF SAFE did not end there.

But the problems at SF SAFE did not end there.

Alex Tourk, principal at Ground Floor Public Affairs, told The Standard that the nonprofit owed his firm $80,000 for his work advising it.

Alex Tourk, principal at Ground Floor Public Affairs, told The Standard that the nonprofit owed his firm $80,000 for his work advising it.

The SF Latino Task Force, a group of more than three dozen community organizations, is also alleging that <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2024/01/sfpd-contractor-accused-of-stiffing-mission-nonprofit-625/">SF SAFE failed to pay its contractors some $625,000 for training Spanish-speaking community ambassadors</a>, Mission Local reported Tuesday. This is despite the nonprofit allegedly receiving this amount from the city to pay for the completed work.

The SF Latino Task Force, a group of more than three dozen community organizations, is also alleging that <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2024/01/sfpd-contractor-accused-of-stiffing-mission-nonprofit-625/">SF SAFE failed to pay its contractors some $625,000 for training Spanish-speaking community ambassadors</a>, Mission Local reported Tuesday. This is despite the nonprofit allegedly receiving this amount from the city to pay for the completed work.

The issues at SF SAFE have spurred calls for separate hearings at the Board of Supervisors and Police Commission by Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin and Police Commission Vice President Max Carter-Oberstone.

The issues at SF SAFE have spurred calls for separate hearings at the Board of Supervisors and Police Commission by Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin and Police Commission Vice President Max Carter-Oberstone.

&#8220;The alleged malfeasance raises serious questions about who knew what and when at SFPD,&#8221; Carter-Oberstone said. &#8220;The commission needs to hear directly from the controller to ascertain the relevant facts.&#8221;

"The alleged malfeasance raises serious questions about who knew what and when at SFPD," Carter-Oberstone said. "The commission needs to hear directly from the controller to ascertain the relevant facts."

&#8220;The alleged malfeasance raises serious questions about who knew what and when at SFPD,&#8221; Carter-Oberstone said. &#8220;The commission needs to hear directly from the controller to ascertain the relevant facts.&#8221;

Troubled San Francisco nonprofit SF SAFE fires director, reports possible check forgery to police

Annie Gaus

What could have been a dreary mid-August convention became a red-hot ticket as San Francisco officials converge in Chicago for what promises to be a historic — and festive — Democratic National Convention.

What could have been a dreary mid-August convention became a red-hot ticket as San Francisco officials converge in Chicago for what promises to be a historic — and festive — Democratic National Convention.

Scores of local politicians, delegates, Democratic party officials, donors and consultants are in the Windy City for a blowout week of brunches, parties, speeches, caucus meetings and rallies in support of Vice President <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/11/kamala-harris-meets-donors-at-sanfrancisco-fairmont-hotel-fundraiser/">Kamala Harris’ bid for the presidency</a>. The festivities will culminate in a Thursday night speech with Harris, who started her political career as San Francisco district attorney, officially accepting the Democratic nomination for president.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kamala Harris courts donors at sold-out SF event where tickets went for up to $500K a pop

Scores of local politicians, delegates, Democratic party officials, donors and consultants are in the Windy City for a blowout week of brunches, parties, speeches, caucus meetings and rallies in support of Vice President <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/11/kamala-harris-meets-donors-at-sanfrancisco-fairmont-hotel-fundraiser/">Kamala Harris’ bid for the presidency</a>. The festivities will culminate in a Thursday night speech with Harris, who started her political career as San Francisco district attorney, officially accepting the Democratic nomination for president.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Like so many delegates, I was worried about what would be happening in the convention and anxious about the state of affairs before Biden passed the torch,” said City Attorney David Chiu, who’s attending the convention as a delegate. “But it has fired up our activists and leaders in ways none of us ever expected. I think [the convention] is both going to be an incredible celebration and a rededication to the fight.”

“Like so many delegates, I was worried about what would be happening in the convention and anxious about the state of affairs before Biden passed the torch,” said City Attorney David Chiu, who’s attending the convention as a delegate. “But it has fired up our activists and leaders in ways none of us ever expected. I think [the convention] is both going to be an incredible celebration and a rededication to the fight.”

Chiu is one of many San Francisans who have known Harris personally since her early days in San Francisco. Other local officials at the convention include Mayor London Breed, San Francisco Democratic Party Chair Nancy Tung and members of the Democratic County Central Committee.&nbsp;

Chiu is one of many San Francisans who have known Harris personally since her early days in San Francisco. Other local officials at the convention include Mayor London Breed, San Francisco Democratic Party Chair Nancy Tung and members of the Democratic County Central Committee.&nbsp;

The Standard will be on the ground in Chicago as Democrats strategize and celebrate with Harris as the party’s official nominee for president.&nbsp;

The Standard will be on the ground in Chicago as Democrats strategize and celebrate with Harris as the party’s official nominee for president.&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-party-central">Party central</h2>

Many attendees will be burning the candle at both ends, with breakfasts, happy hours, dinners and late-night ragers scheduled throughout the week. The convention itself runs from Monday through Thursday.

Many attendees will be burning the candle at both ends, with breakfasts, happy hours, dinners and late-night ragers scheduled throughout the week. The convention itself runs from Monday through Thursday.

“I heard you don’t sleep — thank goodness we’re on Pacific Time,” joked Lily Ho, an elected member of the San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee. There are well over 100 convention-related events in Chicago next week, according to a list <a href="https://docsend.com/view/7wwfqhksc7quvhkk">posted online</a>.

“I heard you don’t sleep — thank goodness we’re on Pacific Time,” joked Lily Ho, an elected member of the San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee. There are well over 100 convention-related events in Chicago next week, according to a list <a href="https://docsend.com/view/7wwfqhksc7quvhkk">posted online</a>.

SF candidates go selfie-crazy in hopes of basking in Kamala Harris’ glow

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On Tuesday, Ripple Chairman <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/24/chris-larsen-ripple-crypto-san-francisco-mayor-breed/">Chris Larsen</a> — a major political and philanthropic donor and supporter of Breed — is hosting a party at a swanky steakhouse in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. San Francisco Democratic activists and other VIPs are expected to pack the evening soiree, which will feature Breed and a “surprise musical guest.”&nbsp;

Crypto billionaire Chris Larsen showers cash on London Breed—and scorn on her foes

On Tuesday, Ripple Chairman <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/24/chris-larsen-ripple-crypto-san-francisco-mayor-breed/">Chris Larsen</a> — a major political and philanthropic donor and supporter of Breed — is hosting a party at a swanky steakhouse in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. San Francisco Democratic activists and other VIPs are expected to pack the evening soiree, which will feature Breed and a “surprise musical guest.”&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the California Democratic Party is throwing a late-night bash at Chicago’s famed House of Blues. Tickets have sold out for what is expected to be a rollicking good time for the California Democratic Party leaders and delegates pledging their support to Harris. Other big-ticket events include a John Legend performance hosted by Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the California Democratic Party is throwing a late-night bash at Chicago’s famed House of Blues. Tickets have sold out for what is expected to be a rollicking good time for the California Democratic Party leaders and delegates pledging their support to Harris. Other big-ticket events include a John Legend performance hosted by Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker.&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-democrats-in-array">Democrats in array?</h2>

Chiu, who leads a <a href="https://senatepress.net/aapi-lead-first-national-membership-organization-for-aapi-elected-and-appointed-officials-launched.html">national organization</a> of Asian American officials, will help conduct roll call at an AAPI caucus meeting during the convention — one of dozens of breakout meetings during the event’s daytime hours. Breed is expected to speak at a delegation breakfast Thursday.&nbsp;

Chiu, who leads a <a href="https://senatepress.net/aapi-lead-first-national-membership-organization-for-aapi-elected-and-appointed-officials-launched.html">national organization</a> of Asian American officials, will help conduct roll call at an AAPI caucus meeting during the convention — one of dozens of breakout meetings during the event’s daytime hours. Breed is expected to speak at a delegation breakfast Thursday.&nbsp;

San Francisco Mayor London Breed, left, holds the hand of Senator Kamala Harris, right, at the Curran in San Francisco, on Saturday, January 12, 2019. 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/BreedPhotoGallery_10-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="Two women are smiling and holding hands. One wears a red blazer with a black blouse and pants, and the other wears a dark gray suit with a black top and a pearl necklace." class="wp-image-171792"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed is among the local officials who have known Harris since her early years in San Francisco. </figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/BreedPhotoGallery_10-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="Two women are smiling and holding hands. One wears a red blazer with a black blouse and pants, and the other wears a dark gray suit with a black top and a pearl necklace." class="wp-image-171792"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed is among the local officials who have known Harris since her early years in San Francisco. </figcaption></figure>

“We all know that presidential elections aren’t won at a convention; it’s the hard work and blood, sweat and tears of activists throughout the party, particularly in swing states,” Chiu said. “In the AAPI community, we’re talking about how folks around the country, who have money and language skills and volunteer time, can help impact the work in the battleground states. That’s what a lot of the focus is going to be on and how California can be relevant.”

“We all know that presidential elections aren’t won at a convention; it’s the hard work and blood, sweat and tears of activists throughout the party, particularly in swing states,” Chiu said. “In the AAPI community, we’re talking about how folks around the country, who have money and language skills and volunteer time, can help impact the work in the battleground states. That’s what a lot of the focus is going to be on and how California can be relevant.”

Luis Zamora, a delegate and candidate for City College Board of Trustees, said he’s keen to build ties with fellow union members and Democrats from across the country. Honey Mahogany, a former San Francisco Democratic Party chair who’s attending as a delegate, said she’s hoping to connect with “folks outside of the SF Bay Area bubble, especially those from more purple states and even red states.”

Luis Zamora, a delegate and candidate for City College Board of Trustees, said he’s keen to build ties with fellow union members and Democrats from across the country. Honey Mahogany, a former San Francisco Democratic Party chair who’s attending as a delegate, said she’s hoping to connect with “folks outside of the SF Bay Area bubble, especially those from more purple states and even red states.”

“I’m also looking forward to connecting with other trans people while I’m here to discuss what’s happening across the country and how to beat back the right wing’s weird preoccupation with our community,” Mahogany said.&nbsp;

“I’m also looking forward to connecting with other trans people while I’m here to discuss what’s happening across the country and how to beat back the right wing’s weird preoccupation with our community,” Mahogany said.&nbsp;

Marjan Philhour, an elected San Francisco Democratic Party member and candidate for Board of Supervisors, called the convention “historic” and connected it to the fight to preserve reproductive rights, democracy and other values San Franciscans hold dear.

Marjan Philhour, an elected San Francisco Democratic Party member and candidate for Board of Supervisors, called the convention “historic” and connected it to the fight to preserve reproductive rights, democracy and other values San Franciscans hold dear.

“We all know there is something special about San Francisco, and come November, the rest of the country will too,” Philhour said. 

“We all know there is something special about San Francisco, and come November, the rest of the country will too,” Philhour said.

For all the fanfare, disruptions are possible both inside and outside the convention.&nbsp;

For all the fanfare, disruptions are possible both inside and outside the convention.&nbsp;

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/democratic-national-convention-chicago-protests-5741113478d2ca454d6d6d7a6e7bd50f">Large demonstrations are expected</a> near the United Center, where main convention activities are taking place. Inside the convention, discord over the Biden administration’s handling of the war in Gaza could play into the proceedings. Out of some 4,600 delegates, there are around <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2024/08/15/uncommitted-voters-want-role-convention/">30 “uncommitted” delegates</a> who have sought to use their leverage for policy changes around the conflict.&nbsp;

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/democratic-national-convention-chicago-protests-5741113478d2ca454d6d6d7a6e7bd50f">Large demonstrations are expected</a> near the United Center, where main convention activities are taking place. Inside the convention, discord over the Biden administration’s handling of the war in Gaza could play into the proceedings. Out of some 4,600 delegates, there are around <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2024/08/15/uncommitted-voters-want-role-convention/">30 “uncommitted” delegates</a> who have sought to use their leverage for policy changes around the conflict.&nbsp;

However, the historic nature of Harris’ nomination, and the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/05/kamala-harris-joe-biden-presidential-candidate/">dramatic circumstances</a> that preceded it, have lent an unusual sense of unity to this year’s convention, said Sam Lauter, a longtime Democratic strategist and former staffer to Biden when he was a U.S. senator.&nbsp;

As Biden enters do-or-die weekend, San Francisco considers the Kamala Harris question

However, the historic nature of Harris’ nomination, and the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/05/kamala-harris-joe-biden-presidential-candidate/">dramatic circumstances</a> that preceded it, have lent an unusual sense of unity to this year’s convention, said Sam Lauter, a longtime Democratic strategist and former staffer to Biden when he was a U.S. senator.&nbsp;

After Biden’s dismal debate performance in June set off a wave of panic inside the Democratic Party, top leaders and rank-and-file Democrats were stricken with anxiety over Biden’s chances against Donald Trump. As Harris consolidated support, San Francisco Democrats rapidly <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/23/kamala-harris-president-san-francisco-campaign-donors/">mobilized behind her candidacy</a>.&nbsp;

Kamala World: The Bay Area elites powering Harris’ campaign for president

After Biden’s dismal debate performance in June set off a wave of panic inside the Democratic Party, top leaders and rank-and-file Democrats were stricken with anxiety over Biden’s chances against Donald Trump. As Harris consolidated support, San Francisco Democrats rapidly <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/23/kamala-harris-president-san-francisco-campaign-donors/">mobilized behind her candidacy</a>.&nbsp;

“Given the state of who our party is running against, I think there’s a unity behind the vice president that’s kind of rare for the Democrats,” Lauter said. “I think people are genuinely excited about a very good, capable, smart person, an attractive candidate who got there in an incredibly unusual way but kind of an exciting way. So I think that’s what we’re seeing.”&nbsp;

“Given the state of who our party is running against, I think there’s a unity behind the vice president that’s kind of rare for the Democrats,” Lauter said. “I think people are genuinely excited about a very good, capable, smart person, an attractive candidate who got there in an incredibly unusual way but kind of an exciting way. So I think that’s what we’re seeing.”&nbsp;

Party central: SF Democrats storm Chicago for historic DNC

Matthew Kupfer

A group of over 1,000 tech professionals, including Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak and Tesla CEO Elon Musk, are sounding the alarm about artificial intelligence and calling for a pause on the training of powerful AI models.

A group of over 1,000 tech professionals, including Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak and Tesla CEO Elon Musk, are sounding the alarm about artificial intelligence and calling for a pause on the training of powerful AI models.

AI systems that feature “human-competitive intelligence can pose profound risks to society and humanity,” they said in an <a href="https://futureoflife.org/open-letter/pause-giant-ai-experiments/">open letter</a> published by the Future of Life Institute. The letter cited risks that machines could spread misinformation, take fulfilling jobs from people and eventually outsmart human minds.

AI systems that feature “human-competitive intelligence can pose profound risks to society and humanity,” they said in an <a href="https://futureoflife.org/open-letter/pause-giant-ai-experiments/">open letter</a> published by the Future of Life Institute. The letter cited risks that machines could spread misinformation, take fulfilling jobs from people and eventually outsmart human minds.

“Therefore, we call on all AI labs to immediately pause for at least 6 months the training of AI systems more powerful than [OpenAI’s] GPT-4,” the letter states. “This pause should be public and verifiable, and include all key actors. If such a pause cannot be enacted quickly, governments should step in and institute a moratorium.”

“Therefore, we call on all AI labs to immediately pause for at least 6 months the training of AI systems more powerful than [OpenAI’s] GPT-4,” the letter states. “This pause should be public and verifiable, and include all key actors. If such a pause cannot be enacted quickly, governments should step in and institute a moratorium.”

That pause should be used to develop protocols to ensure that AI’s future development is safe and beneficial to society, the technologists said.

That pause should be used to develop protocols to ensure that AI’s future development is safe and beneficial to society, the technologists said.

The letter comes at a time when AI’s development has reached a fever pitch, with new products and applications of the technology rolling out constantly.

The letter comes at a time when AI’s development has reached a fever pitch, with new products and applications of the technology rolling out constantly.

It also represents an unusual call for government intervention in a tech industry often known for its libertarian ethos.

It also represents an unusual call for government intervention in a tech industry often known for its libertarian ethos.

Beyond a six-month moratorium on training <a href="https://sfstandard.com/technology/techies-swarm-san-franciscos-first-ever-generative-ai-conference-as-industry-booms/">powerful new AI systems</a>, the letter urged developers and policymakers to work together to create a robust regulatory framework for AI. Those regulations should help the public distinguish “real from synthetic,” ensure the technology’s safety, and hold people or organizations liable for AI-caused harm.

Beyond a six-month moratorium on training <a href="https://sfstandard.com/technology/techies-swarm-san-franciscos-first-ever-generative-ai-conference-as-industry-booms/">powerful new AI systems</a>, the letter urged developers and policymakers to work together to create a robust regulatory framework for AI. Those regulations should help the public distinguish “real from synthetic,” ensure the technology’s safety, and hold people or organizations liable for AI-caused harm.

The signatories also call for “well-resourced institutions for coping with the dramatic economic and political disruptions (especially to democracy) that AI will cause.”

The signatories also call for “well-resourced institutions for coping with the dramatic economic and political disruptions (especially to democracy) that AI will cause.”

Concern about the potential danger of artificial intelligence is nothing new. Researchers have long discussed the risks of AI becoming “misaligned” with its creators’ goals, a development that <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2023/03/20/in-san-francisco-some-people-wonder-when-ai-will-kill-us-all-.html">some worry could lead to the destruction of humanity</a>.

Concern about the potential danger of artificial intelligence is nothing new. Researchers have long discussed the risks of AI becoming “misaligned” with its creators’ goals, a development that <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2023/03/20/in-san-francisco-some-people-wonder-when-ai-will-kill-us-all-.html">some worry could lead to the destruction of humanity</a>.

Many discussions of the “alignment problem” have focused on theoretical risks. The Future of Life letter is not entirely different.

Many discussions of the “alignment problem” have focused on theoretical risks. The Future of Life letter is not entirely different.

It describes AI labs as “locked in an out-of-control race to develop and deploy ever more powerful digital minds that no one – not even their creators – can understand, predict, or reliably control.”

It describes AI labs as “locked in an out-of-control race to develop and deploy ever more powerful digital minds that no one – not even their creators – can understand, predict, or reliably control.”

But it also highlights more immediate dangers familiar to the average person: misinformation, job loss and the lack of regulation governing AI.

But it also highlights more immediate dangers familiar to the average person: misinformation, job loss and the lack of regulation governing AI.

Beyond Musk and Wozniak, other signatories to the letter include politician Andrew Yang, Skype co-founder Jaan Tallinn, Ripple co-founder Chris Larsen, author Yuval Noah Harari and a large number of AI professionals, academics and researchers.

Beyond Musk and Wozniak, other signatories to the letter include politician Andrew Yang, Skype co-founder Jaan Tallinn, Ripple co-founder Chris Larsen, author Yuval Noah Harari and a large number of AI professionals, academics and researchers.

Elon Musk, Steve Wozniak, tech leaders call for 6-month pause on AI development, citing dangers to society

Gabe Greschler

Kevin Truong

A new poll conducted by the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce is showing strong support for two propositions on the March 5 ballot that are poised to increase law enforcement’s powers and create stricter rules surrounding welfare and drug use, data that suggests voters are leaning away from some of the city’s more progressive policies on policing and social services.&nbsp;

A new poll conducted by the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce is showing strong support for two propositions on the March 5 ballot that are poised to increase law enforcement’s powers and create stricter rules surrounding welfare and drug use, data that suggests voters are leaning away from some of the city’s more progressive policies on policing and social services.&nbsp;

The Chamber found that a significant majority of San Franciscans—61%—would vote yes on Prop. E, which would <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/05/san-francisco-mayor-police-drones/">expand the Police Department’s surveillance capabilities</a> and allow officers to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/27/san-francisco-mayor-breed-march-2024-ballot-measure-explainer/">make more vehicle pursuits</a>. Thirty-seven percent are in opposition.

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The Chamber found that a significant majority of San Franciscans—61%—would vote yes on Prop. E, which would <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/05/san-francisco-mayor-police-drones/">expand the Police Department’s surveillance capabilities</a> and allow officers to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/27/san-francisco-mayor-breed-march-2024-ballot-measure-explainer/">make more vehicle pursuits</a>. Thirty-seven percent are in opposition.

The polling also found that Prop. F, which would require screening and treatment for single adults suspected of being addicted to illegal drugs as a condition of receiving cash assistance, is garnering similarly robust support, with 61% of voters in support and 36% opposed.

The polling also found that Prop. F, which would require screening and treatment for single adults suspected of being addicted to illegal drugs as a condition of receiving cash assistance, is garnering similarly robust support, with 61% of voters in support and 36% opposed.

Not all of the propositions are seeing such outright support: Proposition C, which incentivizes turning office space into housing by waiving the conversion’s transfer tax, had 53% of voters in support and 42% against. All three propositions were placed on the ballot by Mayor London Breed and need simple majorities to pass.

Not all of the propositions are seeing such outright support: Proposition C, which incentivizes turning office space into housing by waiving the conversion’s transfer tax, had 53% of voters in support and 42% against. All three propositions were placed on the ballot by Mayor London Breed and need simple majorities to pass.

The Chamber’s polling offers insights into where voters are landing on ballot measures championed by Breed, who faces a tough reelection contest in November. As frustrations run high over public safety, homelessness and other pressing issues, Breed’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/31/san-francisco-mayor-race-breed-lurie-poll/">popularity has slipped</a>.

Bad news for Mayor London Breed in new poll

The Chamber’s polling offers insights into where voters are landing on ballot measures championed by Breed, who faces a tough reelection contest in November. As frustrations run high over public safety, homelessness and other pressing issues, Breed’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/31/san-francisco-mayor-race-breed-lurie-poll/">popularity has slipped</a>.

San Francisco Mayor London Breed speaks at City Hall on Tuesday, Oct 24, 2023. The mayor gave a press conference about the upcoming APEC summit.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/apecgraton10242023-13.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman in a purple dress speaks at a microphone; another woman smiles in the background." class="wp-image-245501"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco voters appear to be supportive of ballot measures placed on the March 5 ballot by Mayor London Breed. </figcaption></figure>

“I think voters in San Francisco are looking for solutions to address the problems they see in the city,” said Ruth Bernstein, CEO of EMC Research, which conducted 500 interviews for the poll. “They are seeing concerns about crime. They are seeing a number of challenges in the city. And they are open and supportive of changes that are going to address some of those problems.”

“I think voters in San Francisco are looking for solutions to address the problems they see in the city,” said Ruth Bernstein, CEO of EMC Research, which conducted 500 interviews for the poll. “They are seeing concerns about crime. They are seeing a number of challenges in the city. And they are open and supportive of changes that are going to address some of those problems.”

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stronger-policing-and-drug-policy">Stronger policing and drug policy</h2>

Prop. E, which would allow police officers to use drones, more cameras and automated license plate readers and give them more latitude to chase suspects, is seeing a firehose of money coming in from a variety of tech leaders, including Ripple chairman Chris Larsen and venture capitalist Ron Conway.&nbsp;

Prop. E, which would allow police officers to use drones, more cameras and automated license plate readers and give them more latitude to chase suspects, is seeing a firehose of money coming in from a variety of tech leaders, including Ripple chairman Chris Larsen and venture capitalist Ron Conway.&nbsp;

The ballot measure would also require the Police Commission, which acts as an oversight group of the department, to gather community feedback if they are implementing new policies. It would also task the watchdog and department to reduce tasks considered time-consuming for police officers.

The ballot measure would also require the Police Commission, which acts as an oversight group of the department, to gather community feedback if they are implementing new policies. It would also task the watchdog and department to reduce tasks considered time-consuming for police officers.

As of Tuesday, the ballot measure has racked up nearly $1.5 million, according to the city’s Ethics Commission—<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/22/london-breed-prop-e-san-francisco-police-fundraising/">by far the most cash injected in support of a proposition</a> for the March election.&nbsp;

This San Francisco ballot measure would boost police surveillance. It&#8217;s raised $1M

As of Tuesday, the ballot measure has racked up nearly $1.5 million, according to the city’s Ethics Commission—<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/22/london-breed-prop-e-san-francisco-police-fundraising/">by far the most cash injected in support of a proposition</a> for the March election.&nbsp;

One of Breed’s main opponents in the race this November, Daniel Lurie, has established his own committee supporting the measure.

One of Breed’s main opponents in the race this November, Daniel Lurie, has established his own committee supporting the measure.

The proposition’s opponents have raised $200,000, with the American Civil Liberties Union speaking out against the measure, describing it as going backward on police reforms and removing teeth from the Police Commission’s oversight role.

The proposition’s opponents have raised $200,000, with the American Civil Liberties Union speaking out against the measure, describing it as going backward on police reforms and removing teeth from the Police Commission’s oversight role.

“I think it&#8217;s obvious that people are reacting to the news and information to the ongoing flash mob crimes event and the problem of open drug sales in the Tenderloin and SoMa areas,” said University of San Francisco politics professor James Taylor. “And this was predictable, that the public would act in that particular way. It would be surprising if the public opposed any of the reforms.”&nbsp;

“I think it's obvious that people are reacting to the news and information to the ongoing flash mob crimes event and the problem of open drug sales in the Tenderloin and SoMa areas,” said University of San Francisco politics professor James Taylor. “And this was predictable, that the public would act in that particular way. It would be surprising if the public opposed any of the reforms.”&nbsp;

“I think it&#8217;s obvious that people are reacting to the news and information to the ongoing flash mob crimes event and the problem of open drug sales in the Tenderloin and SoMa areas,” said University of San Francisco politics professor James Taylor. “And this was predictable, that the public would act in that particular way. It would be surprising if the public opposed any of the reforms.”&nbsp;

Ken Reigenborn uses drugs in the Tenderloin District of San Francisco on July 4, 2022. Homelessness and public drug use including the use of fentanyl continue to be major public health issues in the City.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/2022_july_04_tenderloin_addiction-17.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man is hunched over, using a straw on a device in his hand, with graffiti and items in the background." class="wp-image-241307"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A new poll shows that 61% of San Francisco voters support Prop. F, which would require single adults suspected of being addicted to illegal drugs to undergo screening and agree to treatment as a condition of receiving cash welfare benefits. </figcaption></figure>

The mayor’s other proposition, Prop. F, would require single adults on city welfare payments who are suspected of using illicit drugs to undergo screening and treatment if they want to keep receiving benefits.&nbsp;

The mayor’s other proposition, Prop. F, would require single adults on city welfare payments who are suspected of using illicit drugs to undergo screening and treatment if they want to keep receiving benefits.&nbsp;

A <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/18/san-francisco-drugs-welfare-poll-march-2024-election/">poll in December</a> showed similar support from the public, with 66% voting yes. Over $500,000 has been raised for the measure, with support coming in part from Ripple’s Larsen.&nbsp;

Controversial plan to screen welfare recipients for drugs is backed by voters, poll says

A <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/18/san-francisco-drugs-welfare-poll-march-2024-election/">poll in December</a> showed similar support from the public, with 66% voting yes. Over $500,000 has been raised for the measure, with support coming in part from Ripple’s Larsen.&nbsp;

Opposition has come from some of the city’s elected officials—including a “no” vote by the San Francisco Democratic Party—with some electeds expressing skepticism over how impactful the rule will be in actually fighting the city’s drug crisis.

Opposition has come from some of the city’s elected officials—including a “no” vote by the San Francisco Democratic Party—with some electeds expressing skepticism over how impactful the rule will be in actually fighting the city’s drug crisis.

“I suspect it reflects frustration and anger,” said Stanford professor Keith Humphreys, an expert on drug addiction, about the public’s support. “We’re not a city overrun by right-wing people. They’ve just come to the end of their rope.”

“I suspect it reflects frustration and anger,” said Stanford professor Keith Humphreys, an expert on drug addiction, about the public’s support. “We’re not a city overrun by right-wing people. They’ve just come to the end of their rope.”

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-downtown-recovery-and-office-conversions">Downtown recovery and office conversions</h2>

The health of downtown San Francisco and policies meant to speed up its languid recovery was also a major theme of the poll results.&nbsp;

The health of downtown San Francisco and policies meant to speed up its languid recovery was also a major theme of the poll results.&nbsp;

Some 84% of voters support the idea of providing financial incentives for small businesses to stay or relocate downtown, and 81% support tax incentives for helping to fill vacant ground-floor spaces that have increasingly dotted the city’s central business district.&nbsp;

Some 84% of voters support the idea of providing financial incentives for small businesses to stay or relocate downtown, and 81% support tax incentives for helping to fill vacant ground-floor spaces that have increasingly dotted the city’s central business district.&nbsp;

That backing extends to large companies as well, although to a slightly lesser extent. The poll found that 71% of voters support offering incentives for large businesses to stay or move downtown.

That backing extends to large companies as well, although to a slightly lesser extent. The poll found that 71% of voters support offering incentives for large businesses to stay or move downtown.

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