House Launches Bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence, Aiming To Lead Global Innovation

The House has shown plans to establish a bipartisan task force focused on artificial intelligence (AI). Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) announced that he, along with Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), selected 12 members each to serve on the task force.

Reps. Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.) and Ted Lieu (D-Calif.) will lead the research panel. The group plans to create a comprehensive document containing suggestions for the future and bipartisan policy ideas regarding AI.

Bipartisan AI Task Force for America's Future

(Photo : Win McNamee/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 25: Newly elected Speaker of the House Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) speaks in the House chamber after his election at the U.S. Capitol on October 25, 2023 in Washington, DC. After a contentious nominating period that has seen four candidates over a three-week period, Johnson was voted in to succeed former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA).

A Bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence has been jointly constituted by Speaker Mike Johnson and Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries in an attempt to fully address the difficulties and revolutionary promise of artificial intelligence (AI).

The Task Force consists of 24 members chosen by Speaker Johnson and Leader Jeffries, and is co-chaired by Chair Jay Obernolte and Co-Chair Ted Lieu. Every member represents important jurisdictional committees, guaranteeing a well-rounded and informed group that can provide insightful opinions.

The primary objective of the Task Force is to produce a comprehensive report, encompassing guiding principles, forward-looking recommendations, and bipartisan policy proposals. These recommendations will be meticulously developed in consultation with relevant committees, reflecting a commitment to a thorough understanding of the multifaceted nature of AI and its potential impact on the economy and society.

Speaking on the importance of this initiative, Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized the significance of bipartisan collaboration in navigating the promises and complexities of AI. He expressed optimism about the Task Force's role in ensuring America's continued leadership in this strategic arena.

Similarly, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries highlighted the responsibility of Congress to facilitate AI breakthroughs while safeguarding the interests of everyday Americans. The need for bipartisan efforts to address challenges and implement necessary guardrails to protect citizens was underscored by both leaders, according to Ted Lieu.

Bipartisan AI Task Force for Innovation, Security

With their extensive experience, co-chairs Reps. Jay Obernolte and Ted Lieu guarantee a well-rounded and knowledgeable approach for the Task Force. A bipartisan group of lawmakers with AI competence and representation from pertinent committees of jurisdiction will be led by them.

The primary concerns are still promoting innovation, preserving a competitive advantage, and protecting national security as important guidelines for the creation of reliable and secure technology continue to be discussed.

In the meanwhile, the Senate has actively encouraged senators to submit regulatory legislation and allocated funds for staff training in recognition of the importance of artificial intelligence. In 2023, Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer organized "AI Insight Forums" to give congressional staff members insights from business leaders.

The urgency of tackling AI-related challenges at the legislative level is highlighted by Schumer's stated aspirations to enact an AI legislative framework in early 2024. The fact that none of the committees have succeeded in moving AI legislation to the floor in spite of these attempts shows the continued necessity of thorough and partisan talks on AI regulation, Washington Examiner reported.