AI Omnibus: Swift Agreement Needed to Deliver on Simplification Promises
Brussels, BELGIUM – On March 18, 2026, the European Parliament’s Committees on Civil Liberties (LIBE) and Internal Market (IMCO) took a significant step by adopting their negotiating mandate for the AI Omnibus. This proposal from the European Commission aims to simplify the AI Act and extend compliance deadlines.
This adoption sets the stage for final interinstitutional negotiations with the Council later this month, marking a crucial moment in the legislative process.
Call for Swift Agreement
The Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA Europe) has urged EU co-legislators to reach a swift agreement, emphasizing that regulatory simplification should remain at the forefront of discussions.
Setting realistic implementation deadlines is deemed essential for the successful rollout of the AI Act. CCIA Europe expressed its support for co-legislators’ decision to postpone the application of high-risk AI rules until December 2027 and August 2028. This delay reflects the systemic challenges in delivering the necessary technical specifications for compliance.
Pragmatic Solutions for Generative AI
The Association advocates for a pragmatic approach, particularly regarding the proposed grace period for generative-AI marking outlined in Article 50(2). CCIA Europe suggests extending this period to a more realistic 12 months, which would provide companies ample time to navigate the evolving landscape.
Additionally, EU negotiators need to address the labelling requirements in Article 50(4). Without an extension, these obligations could lead to inconsistency and confusion, especially as a Code of Practice and guidelines from the AI Office are still pending.
Conclusion: The Need for Timeliness
CCIA Europe’s AI Policy Lead remarked on the urgency of the situation, stating, “The EU promised a simpler regulatory landscape. Now is the time to deliver on the AI Omnibus. Adopting a pragmatic 12-month grace period for generative-AI marking and labelling requirements is crucial to show that the EU values innovation over red tape.”
With tight deadlines approaching and legal uncertainties increasing for companies across the EU, achieving a timely and impactful agreement should be the top priority for co-legislators.
