Coordinating AI Guardrails

The rapid development of AI technology, which has potential to improve our society, has exposed the serious dangers that can come with it. We are already seeing it replace American jobs, threaten our national security, and degrade human dignity.

These risks cannot be ignored, so it’s time to create a seat at the table for someone to monitor AI technology, ensure strong guardrails are in place, and prepare us for this new era of technological innovation and beyond.

That’s why I introduced the Artificial Intelligence Governance and Emerging Threats Act to establish a dedicated official in the president’s Cabinet responsible for federal AI policy.

This representative in charge of the Office of Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technology Threats would serve as the principal adviser to the president on AI and emerging technological threats; coordinate among federal departments to ensure a cohesive federal approach to AI; and monitor risks and opportunities related to AI and other technologies.

My bill will also strengthen accountability and transparency in federal AI policy. The AI representative will be appointed by the president with the advice and consent of the Senate and will be required to testify regularly before Congress on AI developments and threats.

The new Office of Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technology Threats will include five Senate-confirmed deputy representatives to spearhead specific responsibilities:

• Intergovernmental coordination;
• International engagement; 
• Private sector engagement;
• National security and emerging technology threats;  and
• Economic and workforce impacts.

Federal policy must ensure AI promotes human dignity and flourishing, and establishing a dedicated office will help achieve that goal.

I’ll continue working in Congress to set strong, clear guardrails — nationally and internationally. To learn more about my work to set guardrails on AI and data centers, visit barrett.house.gov/ai.