Rep. Obernolte ‘Optimistic’ CREATE AI Act Can Clear Congress
On March 4, 2025, Rep. Jay Obernolte, a Republican from California, expressed his optimism regarding Congress’s potential to pass significant AI legislation. He plans to reintroduce the Creating Resources for Every American To Experiment with AI Act (CREATE AI Act), which aims to enhance the infrastructure for AI research in the United States.
Background of the CREATE AI Act
The CREATE AI Act seeks to make permanent the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) National AI Research Resource (NAIRR) pilot program, officially launched in January 2024. The NAIRR serves as a shared national infrastructure designed to support the AI research community and foster responsible AI usage.
Legislative Goals
Rep. Obernolte has been vocal about his belief in the necessity of passing the CREATE AI Act. He is determined to establish a permanent National AI Research Resource to ensure that cutting-edge AI research is conducted in both academic and commercial settings. He noted that the rising costs of advanced research threaten the ability of academic institutions to engage in essential research, potentially sacrificing the benefits of academic inquiry.
Bipartisan Efforts and Legislative Framework
As a leader of the bipartisan House AI Task Force from the prior Congress, Rep. Obernolte contributed to a comprehensive report outlining a proposed Federal regulatory framework for AI. This final report, spanning 273 pages, includes over 60 key findings and more than 80 recommendations aimed at guiding future Congresses, starting with the current 119th Congress.
Rep. Obernolte emphasized the need for Congress to focus on “bite-sized” legislative pieces rather than sweeping reforms. He believes that this modular approach will facilitate the passage of AI-related legislation, including the CREATE AI Act.
Addressing Nonconsensual AI-generated Imagery
Another critical issue highlighted by Rep. Obernolte is the need to regulate the use of AI tools for generating nonconsensual intimate imagery. He pointed to the alarming trend of teenagers using deepfake technology to create explicit content involving peers, which has severe implications for victims. He expressed confidence that Congress can unite to legislate against such practices, considering the broad consensus on the issue.
Future Prospects and Support
Despite challenges faced in the previous legislative session, Rep. Obernolte remains hopeful that the 119th Congress will successfully pass meaningful AI legislation. He underscored the bipartisan nature of the House AI Task Force, which was evenly divided between Democrats and Republicans, and unanimously approved the task force report.
Additionally, Rep. Obernolte expressed optimism regarding the support from the White House, noting President Donald Trump’s commitment to maintaining the United States’ leadership in AI. He anticipates that the upcoming AI executive order from the White House will help address prevailing concerns in the sector.
In summary, Rep. Obernolte’s efforts to advance the CREATE AI Act reflect a broader commitment to fostering a robust infrastructure for AI research while addressing critical societal issues arising from the technology’s misuse. The legislative approach, characterized by bipartisanship and a focus on manageable initiatives, aims to ensure that the U.S. remains at the forefront of AI innovation.
