A single federal framework would replace a patchwork of state laws, giving developers and users consistent standards across the country.
It's when the U.S. government—not states or companies—writes and enforces the rules for an industry. For AI, that could mean requiring safety tests, disclosures, or limits on certain uses.
Stronger oversight can address risks like discrimination and deepfakes but may also raise compliance costs and affect how quickly U.S. firms can develop and release new AI tools.
Congress passes statutes setting broad requirements, and agencies such as NIST, the FTC, or a new AI-specific body write detailed rules and enforce them.
Presidents can direct agencies through executive orders to set interim standards, as occurred with EO 14110, though such orders can be rescinded by future administrations.
A look at how Washington, the states, and other governments are approaching oversight of artificial intelligence.
Read the guide →As Washington weighs how to govern artificial intelligence, lawmakers and industry remain split over whether binding federal rules would protect the public or hinder U.S. competitiveness.
Read the brief →