Senator introduces bill to protect workers during AI boom

WASHINGTON (Gray DC) - Artificial intelligence has become a recent hot topic of debate on Capitol Hill, as lawmakers consider how to move forward with the quickly changing technology. Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly (D) is one lawmaker proposing legislation that supports humans while also considering the relevance of the tech.

“This is something we have to tackle immediately,” Kelly said.

What to do about the rise and evolution of artificial intelligence has become a sticking point on Capitol Hill. With the technology both a benefit and a possible risk, Kelly says it’s important to get ahead of the trend.

“You know when I used to fly the space shuttle, the master alarms flashing on the instrument panel, you gotta take action. You look at the data, you come up with a plan, you execute the plan. That’s this moment with this technology,” Kelly said.

Kelly said AI has integrated itself into Americans’ everyday lives while also posing a risk to workers, who could soon see their positions filled by technological advancements.

Kelly introduced the Make AI Work for Americans Act, legislation that would guarantee companies benefiting most from AI invest in workers and pay their fair share, mitigating damage from technology poised to replace the human workforce.

“There are estimates out there that possibly millions of Americans lose their jobs because of this technology. We have to have an answer for that,” Kelly said.

The legislation is one proposal amid increased debate on artificial intelligence. The debate comes the same week President Donald Trump hosted top tech leaders at the White House to praise the development of what he calls “super intelligence.”

Kelly said any evolution must come with strict guardrails and should not rely on companies to self-police. He said that begins with an understanding of the basic workings of AI.

“So we can introduce good legislation that will work,” Kelly said.