Lawmakers Propose Bipartisan Bill for AI Leadership in Federal Agencies

Reps. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., and Andrew Garbarino, R-N.Y., have introduced the Artificial Intelligence Leadership to Enable Accountable Deployment Act, a bipartisan bill mandating the establishment of a chief AI officer position within every federal agency.

The bill also proposes the creation of an interagency CAIO council for government-wide coordination on AI use, Connolly’s office said.

Connolly said a dedicated leadership structure is necessary to manage the potential risks and opportunities that AI presents. He argued that the bill would bring accountability and structure to the government’s approach to AI, ensuring safe and efficient deployment across agencies.

Meanwhile, Garbarino emphasized the need for consistent AI oversight and development within the government. He said the CAIO positions and interagency council would aid in coordinating AI efforts and effectively mitigating risks.

In addition to the positions and the council, the bill also mandates the creation of boards within each agency to coordinate internal AI activities, requires every agency to develop a formal AI strategy and urges agency heads to ensure responsible AI practices.

The AI LEAD Act’s companion legislation in the Senate is spearheaded by Sens. Gary Peters, D-Mich., and John Cornyn, R-Texas.