Sanders and Casar Propose Bill to Ban Development of 'Superintelligence' AI

Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Greg Casar have introduced legislation that would ban the development of what the bill terms 'artificial superintelligence,' with violators facing criminal penalties including prison time.

The bill describes superintelligence as AI technology capable of causing the destruction or disempowerment of humanity, including scenarios in which such a system could be used to overthrow a government. The lawmakers argue that current AI development is proceeding without adequate safeguards against these risks.

The proposal reflects a broader debate in Washington and within the AI industry over how to regulate increasingly capable AI systems. Some researchers and industry figures have warned publicly about long-term risks from advanced AI, while others argue that such restrictions could slow beneficial research and cede ground to competitors, including in other countries.

It remains unclear how a ban on 'superintelligence' would be defined and enforced in practice, and the bill is expected to face scrutiny over these questions as it moves through Congress. Passage is considered uncertain given the current composition of Congress and divided views on AI regulation among lawmakers.

The bill's sponsors said they intend to push for hearings and further co-sponsors in the coming weeks.