Kiggans Leads Bill to Strengthen U.S. Leadership in AI

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) introduced the AI for America Act, which establishes a national strategy to strengthen U.S. leadership in artificial intelligence, modernize federal research infrastructure, and remove outdated regulatory barriers.

The bill directs federal agencies to develop a coordinated national plan for AI research and deployment. It requires agencies to identify regulatory barriers that prevent the use of AI in key sectors, including healthcare and transportation. It also calls for a report on measures to detect and prevent bias and security risks in AI models, training data, and decision outcomes.

“Artificial intelligence will define the next century of economic growth, national security, and global competitiveness,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “We must lead in developing responsible, transparent AI systems that reflect American values, not the interests of foreign adversaries. The AI for America Act ensures that the United States remains the world’s innovation leader by setting clear goals, strengthening research infrastructure, and removing outdated barriers to safe adoption.”

The bill builds on President Trump’s Executive Order 14179 by establishing a statutory federal action plan for AI leadership, including workforce development, research partnerships, and innovation safeguards.

“Right now, federal agencies lack a unified strategy for integrating AI into mission-critical functions,” Kiggans continued. “This bill ensures the federal government takes a coordinated, strategic approach across agencies, strengthens public-private partnerships, and protects Americans from bias, cybersecurity threats, or misuse of data.”

Key Provisions of the AI for America Act:

• Requires a Federal Artificial Intelligence Action Plan with measurable goals for leadership, workforce development, partnerships, and safeguards.
• Directs development and modernization of civilian AI research infrastructure, including partnerships with DOE, NASA, NIST, and NSF.
• Requires identification and removal of regulatory barriers preventing AI adoption in sectors such as healthcare, transportation, and scientific research.
• Mandates a one-time NIST report on audit mechanisms, disclosure requirements, and review protocols to detect and prevent security risks and ideological bias in AI systems.

Background:

• China is investing heavily in AI to challenge U.S. technological leadership and global standards.
• Federal agencies lack a unified strategy to promote innovation, ensure transparency, and coordinate adoption.
• The bill codifies a national framework to ensure American innovation remains rooted in constitutional principles, not foreign influence or political agendas.

Read the bill text here.