White House Unveils National AI Policy Framework
The Trump administration has introduced a legislative framework aimed at establishing a single national policy on artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative urges Congress to adopt a light-touch legislative approach, focusing on uniform safety and security measures while preempting state laws.
Objectives of the Framework
The framework outlines six key objectives:
- Protecting children and empowering parents
- Safeguarding American communities
- Respecting intellectual property rights and supporting creators
- Preventing censorship and protecting free speech
- Enabling innovation and ensuring American AI dominance
- Educating Americans and developing an AI-ready workforce
The White House stated, “The federal government is uniquely positioned to set a consistent national policy that enables us to win the AI race and deliver its benefits to the American people, while effectively addressing the policy challenges that accompany this transformative technology.”
Push for a National Standard
A central feature of this framework is the call for a unified federal approach to AI governance. The administration has consistently advocated for preemption over state laws regarding AI. In December, President Trump signed an executive order aimed at undermining state laws on AI in favor of a comprehensive regulatory framework.
The framework emphasizes, “Congress should preempt state AI laws that impose undue burdens to ensure a minimally burdensome national standard consistent with these recommendations, not fifty discordant ones.” However, it does allow for exceptions, particularly for laws that protect children or consumers.
Key Policy Priorities
In addition to the preemption of state AI laws, the framework emphasizes several priority areas for congressional action:
- Child safety: Protecting families from harms associated with AI technologies, including risks of fraud and impersonation.
- Infrastructure: Addressing the increasing energy and computing demands necessary for advanced AI systems, ensuring that residential ratepayers do not face higher electricity costs due to new AI data centers.
- Workforce development: Highlighting the need for education and skills training in alignment with evolving AI technologies.
This framework was introduced concurrently with a draft proposal in the Senate for national AI regulation, led by Senator Marsha Blackburn. This 300-page measure also aims to preempt state laws, focusing on regulations that protect the “4 Cs” — children, creators, conservatives, and communities.
