New House Bipartisan Task Force on AI

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) have announced the formation of a new bipartisan task force on artificial intelligence (AI). The task force is chaired by Representatives Jay Obernolte (R-CA) and Ted Lieu (D-CA), who will spearhead efforts to explore Congress's role in maintaining global leadership in AI innovation while also ensuring appropriate safeguards are in place to protect against potential threats.

The task force press release emphasized the significance of bipartisan collaboration in understanding and preparing for the transformative potential of AI. 

• Speaker Johnson stressed the need for Congress to encourage innovation, safeguard national security, and carefully consider necessary guardrails to ensure the development of safe and trustworthy technology. 
  
  
• Minority Leader Jeffries echoed these sentiments, highlighting Congress's responsibility to facilitate promising AI breakthroughs while ensuring equitable benefits for the public and implementing safeguards against misuse.
  
  
• The task force's primary responsibility is to produce a comprehensive report addressing guiding principles, forward-looking recommendations, and bipartisan policies, developed in consultation with relevant committees of jurisdiction to inform potential legislative action. Jeffries noted the diverse expertise and experiences of the selected members, spanning various committees with relevant jurisdictions.

The bipartisan task force on AI comprises 12 Republican-appointed members and 12 Democratic-appointed members. It signifies a rare collaborative effort in the House of Representatives, typically known for its division. 

Previously, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) announced his SAFE Innovation Framework, hosting multiple “AI Insight Forums” to provide members of the Senate and their staff with access to industry experts to help guide legislative proposals. 

As policymakers explore the implications of AI, it is important for all stakeholders, including the private sector, to seek opportunities to join the discussion.