The United States Senate voted 72-28 on Tuesday to pass a sweeping infrastructure bill that includes, for the first time, binding federal regulations on artificial intelligence systems deployed in energy grids, water treatment facilities, and transportation networks.
The bill, which now heads to the House, was the product of months of bipartisan negotiation and reflects growing concern among lawmakers about the security risks of AI in critical infrastructure.
Key Provisions
The legislation establishes a new office within the Department of Homeland Security tasked with certifying AI systems before they can be deployed in critical infrastructure. It also mandates annual audits and requires human oversight for any AI system involved in safety-critical decision-making.
Industry Reaction
Technology industry groups offered a mixed response. Some praised the bill for providing regulatory clarity, while others warned that overly prescriptive requirements could slow innovation and put American companies at a disadvantage.
