WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republicans have revised the party’s extensive tax bill in an effort to preserve new policies aimed at preventing state regulation of artificial intelligence for a decade.
In legislative language revealed Thursday night, Senate Republicans indicated that they would reject federal funding for broadband projects if states impose regulations on AI. This marks a departure from a provision that was approved in the House, which aimed to prohibit any current or future AI regulations at the state level for the next decade.
“These regulations will accomplish the objectives laid out by President Trump and Congressional Republicans on behalf of voters: to unleash America’s full economic potential and ensure national security,” said Sen. Ted Cruz, chair of the Senate Commerce Committee, in a statement about the modifications.
The proposed ban has upset state legislators, with both Democrat and Republican-led states expressing concerns, particularly some advocates for digital safety who worry about the rapid evolution of AI technology. However, leading AI figures, including Sam Altman from OpenAI, argue that a “patchwork” of state regulations would stifle innovation.
Some House Republicans are also expressing uncertainty regarding these provisions. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) criticized the House bill’s suspension of AI regulations after casting her vote, stating she had not reviewed that portion of the legislation.
“We should diminish the federal government’s power and uphold national authority. Not the other way around,” Greene stated. I posted about it on social media.
Senate Republicans have modified the bill in order to comply with the special procedures required for passing tax legislation with a simple majority vote. To adhere to these guidelines, all provisions must primarily relate to federal budgeting rather than government policies. Republican leaders contend that by imposing conditions on states for receiving specific federal funds, such as those directed toward broadband internet infrastructure, they satisfy Senate criteria for utilizing majority votes.
Cruz informed reporters on Thursday that he would present his case to fellow senators next week on why the updated ban aligns with the established rules. Members of the House of Commerce provide guidance regarding appropriate rules and procedures. Although these rulings aren’t legally binding, senators from both parties are attentive to previous determinations.
Senators generally advocate for Congress to lead in AI regulation; however, both parties have yet to reach any compromises that accommodate the varied concerns of Republicans and Democrats.
The GOP’s legislation also introduces significant modifications to how the federal government auctions its commercial spectrum. These new regulations increase the availability of spectrum for commercial use. This has caused division among lawmakers as they try to balance national security issues with granting telecom companies more access for commercial wireless operations.
The senators are aiming to pass a tax bill later this month that extends the 2017 tax cuts and related benefits from Donald Trump’s initial term in office.
Source: apnews.com