A measure to codify a key federal office focused on artificial intelligence security advanced out of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee on Thursday. The bipartisan vote was part of a broader slate of AI-focused and data center bills moved by the panel. Lawmakers put off potential changes regarding funding levels for the proposed office.
The legislation aims to formally establish an AI security center within the federal government, giving it statutory permanence beyond executive orders. The move reflects growing congressional concern over national security risks posed by rapidly advancing AI systems. Supporters argue that a dedicated federal entity is essential for coordinating threat responses across agencies.
While the committee advanced the bill on a bipartisan basis, specific funding details were deferred for future consideration. The measure is part of a package that includes additional bills targeting data center infrastructure and AI governance. No dollar figures were attached to the security center proposal during the markup session.
The bill now heads to the full House floor for consideration, though no timeline has been set for a vote. If enacted, the office would be responsible for monitoring AI-related security threats and advising federal agencies. Critics may question whether a new bureaucracy can keep pace with the speed of AI innovation.
Some industry observers caution that codifying the center too quickly could limit flexibility in responding to emerging threats, preferring a lighter regulatory touch.