US Senators Introduce Bill to Block Foreign Adversaries From American AI Technology

Two Republican senators behind last year’s GENIUS Act for stablecoins, Tim Scott and Bill Hagerty, have introduced new legislation aimed at protecting US artificial intelligence technology from foreign adversaries. The bill would expand Commerce Department authority to block transactions involving technology designed, developed or supplied by entities connected to hostile nations including China, Russia, Iran and North Korea.

What the Bill Would Do

Beyond blocking foreign-linked transactions, the legislation would formally establish an assistant secretary position at the Commerce Department to oversee information and communications technology supply chain security. It would also maintain public access to open-source AI software, balancing security concerns with innovation access.

Narrow Window for Passage

The bill arrives as Congress heads toward summer recess and midterm election season, leaving limited time for standalone advancement. Sponsors may need to attach it to a larger must-pass bill to move forward.

Scott said Americans should not have to worry about China or Russia exploiting technology embedded in everyday devices and networks.