Obernolte to lead new bipartisan House Task Force on AI

Rep. Jay Obernolte

A newly announced congressional, bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be led by U.S. Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-CA).

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) and U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) announced the establishment of the task force, which will explore how Congress can ensure America is a world leader in AI innovation while also considering appropriate safeguards against current and emerging threats.

“It is an honor to be entrusted by Speaker Johnson to serve as chairman of the House Task Force on Artificial Intelligence,” Rep. Obernolte said on Tuesday. “As new innovations in AI continue to emerge, Congress and our partners in federal government must keep up.”

Speaker Johnson and Leader Jeffries each appointed 12 members to the task force who represent key committees of jurisdiction. U.S. Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA) has been named co-chair alongside Rep. Obernolte.

“I look forward to working with Co-Chair Ted Lieu and the rest of the task force on this critical bipartisan effort,” said Rep. Obernolte.

Among its duties, the task force will produce a report that will include guiding principles, recommendations, and bipartisan policy proposals developed in consultation with committees of jurisdiction, according to information provided by staff.

“House Republicans and Democrats will work together to create a comprehensive report detailing the regulatory standards and congressional actions needed to both protect consumers and foster continued investment and innovation in AI,” Rep. Obernolte said. “The United States has led the world in the development of advanced AI, and we must work to ensure that AI realizes its tremendous potential to improve the lives of people across our country.”

“Led by Rep. Jay Obernolte and Rep. Ted Lieu, the task force will bring together a bipartisan group of members who have AI expertise and represent the relevant committees of jurisdiction,” said Speaker Johnson. “As we look to the future, Congress must continue to encourage innovation and maintain our country’s competitive edge, protect our national security, and carefully consider what guardrails may be needed to ensure the development of safe and trustworthy technology.”