U.S. Sen. Todd Young (R-IN) and U.S. Rep. Jay Obernotle (R-CA) on March 12 proposed a bipartisan, bicameral bill to boost America’s leadership in the convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology.
The AI-Ready Bio-Data Standards Act, S. 4069/H.R. 7907, would direct the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to establish definitions, standards, resources, and frameworks to ensure certain biological datasets are ready for use in AI models.
“Ushering in the Golden Age of Innovation is about more than just winning the global tech race – it’s about securing the safety and prosperity of our country for generations to come,” said Sen. Young, chairman of the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology. “Our bill is an important step in this effort and will better ensure the United States has the infrastructure in place to lead the 21st century.”
Sen. Young sponsored S. 4069 with lead original cosponsor U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), while Rep. Obernolte cosponsored H.R. 7907 alongside bill sponsor U.S. Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA).
The lawmakers pointed out that high-quality biological data has become a strategic asset in global tech competition, yet the United State currently lacks the digital infrastructure and national standards needed to ensure researchers and innovators have world-class biological datasets.
At the same time, China has recognized the importance of this data and made it a priority.
The AI-Ready Bio-Data Standards Act would counter China’s efforts and support American research and innovation to ensure biological datasets are ready for further research, AI-enabled discoveries, and other cutting-edge innovation.
“The convergence of artificial intelligence and biotechnology will define the next era of American innovation,” Rep. Obernolte said. “We currently lack common standards for biological data, which limits our ability to fully harness AI and puts us at risk of falling behind competitors like China.
“The AI-Ready Bio-Data Standards Act will help us build the infrastructure and frameworks needed to power breakthrough discoveries, strengthen our national security, and keep the United States at the forefront of the AI and biotech revolution,” added the congressman.