Sen. Sanders unveils bill to ban artificial superintelligence, create Dept. of AI

Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Greg Casar have introduced a bill that would ban artificial superintelligence, pause the development of advanced AI systems, and establish a new Department of Artificial Intelligence. The legislation, which has endorsements from multiple AI company employees, defines artificial superintelligence as a system that surpasses human cognitive abilities and could potentially act independently of human control.

The bill would also impose a temporary pause on the deployment of advanced AI systems until federal safety rules are put in place. Violations of the law could result in significant penalties, including up to 20 years in prison. Although the bill faces long odds in the Republican-controlled Congress, it reflects the growing concern among progressive lawmakers and voters about the potential risks of unregulated AI development.