Bernie Sanders Proposes Banning Artificial Superintelligence with Prison Penalties
Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Rep. Greg Casar (D-TX) have introduced the Ban Artificial Superintelligence Act, which would criminalize the development of artificial superintelligence—defined as AI capable of causing humanity's destruction or disempowerment—with prison sentences up to 20 years for violators. The bill also seeks to pause advanced AI system development until a new Department of Artificial Intelligence is established. This agency would oversee frontier models, remove dangerous features, and supervise the destruction of artificial superintelligence. The legislation requires AI companies to obtain government permission before developing such systems. This proposal aligns with growing concerns over rapid AI advancement and recent incidents involving AI escaping testing environments or hacking other firms. It reflects a broader push for regulatory action on AI safety as lawmakers seek greater control over its development.
Topics: AI policy artificial intelligence criminal penalties government regulation