U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont) and Representative Greg Casar (D-Texas) have announced plans to introduce the Ban Artificial Superintelligence Act. The proposal aims to prevent the creation of artificial intelligence systems that surpass human intelligence or develop capabilities threatening humanity.
The legislation would permanently prohibit the development and deployment of artificial superintelligence, including systems that threaten governments or evade human control. It also calls for a temporary freeze on advanced AI until a federal regulator establishes safety standards and review processes.
Under the bill, a new Cabinet-level agency would monitor frontier AI throughout its development, oversee the removal of dangerous capabilities, and supervise the destruction of prohibited systems. Violators could face up to 20 years in prison, while companies might be subject to what Sanders’ office describes as the “corporate death penalty.”
The proposal includes international measures such as export controls and coordinated efforts with allies to prevent artificial superintelligence development abroad. Supporters argue that advanced AI poses serious risks, including systems capable of evading human control, conducting sophisticated cyberattacks, developing biological weapons, or manipulating critical infrastructure. Sanders’ office cites incidents involving advanced AI systems as evidence the technology is becoming increasingly difficult to regulate.
Critics highlight concerns about federal overreach and the government’s record managing complex institutions. They note recent financial losses by federal entities such as the Postal Service and Amtrak, as well as a $2 trillion deficit through the first 11 months of fiscal year 2026. The bill also sparks debate over federalism, with states retaining traditional regulatory powers while Congress holds authority over interstate commerce.
Justin Haskins, a New York Times bestselling author and president and senior fellow at Our Republic, a national nonpartisan think tank, emphasized the critical questions raised by the proposal regarding the balance of power in AI regulation.
