Hurd, Kelly Announce New Artificial Intelligence Initiative with the Bipartisan Policy Center

U.S. Representatives Robin Kelly (IL-02) and I recently announced a new initiative with the Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) to develop a bipartisan national artificial intelligence (AI) strategy, which will guide how Congress and the executive branch tackle this critical issue.

Kelly and I will collaborate with BPC over the coming months to bring together an array of policy experts, public and private sector leaders and consumer advocates across the political spectrum through a series of meetings to discuss the complex policy challenges within AI. These efforts will culminate in a new national framework on artificial intelligence.

Kelly and I have asked for BPC’s assistance with this effort because of their leadership in evidence-based policymaking and bipartisan collaboration to solve national problems.

If America loses its advantage in technology, it will have a devastating effect on our economy and national security. We need a national AI strategy to ensure the U.S. is prepared to lead on technology that will define the course of this century. I am excited to once again work with my friend and colleague, Rep. Kelly, to tackle this important issue.

“In order to maintain a strong economy and national defense, America must preserve our technological edge. One of the fastest and most disruptive technologies developing by leaps and bounds is artificial intelligence (AI).  At present, we are woefully underprepared for this technological revolution. It is vital that our nation has a real, actionable AI Strategy that ensures long-term U.S. competitiveness and security,” said Congresswoman Robin Kelly. “I look forward to working with my long-time partner, Congressman Hurd, experts, and the Bipartisan Policy Center as we craft a strategy that ensures America will continue to lead into the next century.”

“Used wisely, artificial intelligence will enhance national security, strengthen our economy, and extend opportunities to millions of Americans who are on the sidelines of our modern economy. However, realizing the full potential of AI is not a foregone conclusion,” said Bipartisan Policy Center President Jason Grumet. “BPC is eager to work with Representatives Hurd and Kelly and a wide range of organizations to develop a National AI Framework. With thoughtful effort, Congress can spur the development of AI while protecting individual privacy, avoiding bias, and promoting economic and social inclusion,” said BPC President Jason Grumet.

In September 2018, Kelly and I published a white paper, “Rise of the Machines: Artificial Intelligence and its Growing Impact on U.S. Policy,” that detailed the importance of AI to the United States and made policy recommendations for Congress and the executive branch. From 2015-2019, we spearheaded Congress’s effort to modernize government technology as the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Information Technology Subcommittee of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.