Senator Bernie Sanders introduced the Ban Artificial Superintelligence Act, which proposes halting development of AI systems exceeding human intelligence. The bill mandates a pause on advanced AI deployment until a federal regulator establishes safety standards. It suggests creating a cabinet-level agency and an advisory board for oversight.
The proposed legislation includes severe penalties, such as the termination of a company's legal existence and prison sentences of up to 20 years for individuals. This shift moves federal policy from voluntary commitments toward strict prohibitions on uncontrollable superintelligence.
Representatives George Whitesides and Pat Harrigan introduced a bill requiring the National Institute of Standards and Technology to monitor AI systems that autonomously facilitate further research and development. This measure addresses risks associated with machines creating more capable machines.
The bipartisan Doctors Not AI Act, introduced by Representative Greg Landsman, seeks to limit AI authority in health insurance. It requires licensed healthcare professionals to make final decisions on medical claim denials and mandates disclosure of AI use in claims processing.
Other legislative efforts include the Defense AI Reliability and Reporting Act by Representative Sara Jacobs, aimed at tracking AI incidents within the Pentagon. Additionally, Representative Tony Wied proposed a bill to coordinate cybersecurity guidance for small federal contractors.
