U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn Proposes National AI Legislative Framework
On March 18, 2026, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn issued a legislative framework discussion draft focused on artificial intelligence (AI), titled the “Trump America AI Act.” This proposal aims to codify President Trump’s executive order from December 11, 2025, which sought to establish a uniform federal AI policy.
Senator Blackburn emphasized the need for Congress to create federal standards and protections that address the fragmented state laws hindering AI innovation. She stated, “[President Trump] called on Congress to pass federal standards and protections to solve the patchwork of state laws that has hindered AI innovation.”
Scope of the AI Discussion Draft
The AI Discussion Draft outlines a comprehensive federal framework for AI, categorized into 17 titles that cover major thematic areas. Key components include:
Safety and Protection
Measures under this section establish:
- Developer duties of care for AI chatbots.
- Safeguards for minors through the Kids Online Safety Act.
- Restrictions on AI companions for minors.
- Requirements for transparency, provenance, and watermarking of synthetic content.
Governance, Accountability, and Liability
This section includes:
- Reporting obligations for AI-driven job impacts.
- Repeal of Section 230 of the Communications Act.
- Defined liability standards for developers and deployers.
- Mandatory audits of high-risk AI systems.
- Registration requirements for foreign AI developers.
Risk Management and National Security
Components here establish:
- A federal evaluation program for advanced AI systems.
- Addressing risks related to loss-of-control scenarios, weaponization, threats to critical infrastructure, and erosion of civil liberties.
Innovation, Research, and Standards
This section aims to promote:
- Voluntary AI standards and testbeds.
- International cooperation.
- Establishment of the National AI Research Resource.
- Expansion of public data resources.
- Implementation of federal grand challenge prize competitions.
Intellectual Property, Copyright, and Digital Identity
Reforms include:
- Voice and likeness protections.
- Subpoena authority for AI training data usage.
- Provisions clarifying that AI training and certain derivative uses are not fair use under the Copyright Act.
Federal Agency AI Use and Infrastructure
This section requires federal agencies to:
- Procure “unbiased” AI models.
- Impose protections for electricity ratepayers regarding data-center infrastructure owned by private companies.
Next Steps and Takeaway
As a discussion draft, it remains uncertain whether Senator Blackburn’s bill will proceed through standard legislative proceedings, such as presentation to relevant Senate committees, or if the next steps will involve informal stakeholder discussions. If the latter, the focus will likely be on gathering feedback from federal agencies and private sector organizations affected by the proposed legislation. Additionally, engaging with other Senators will be essential to build a viable coalition of sponsors and support.
Given the breadth and complexity of the current AI Discussion Draft, stakeholders across the political spectrum and technology ecosystem should prepare for an extended negotiation period, including potential amendments and restructuring before a final legislative text is produced.
