GoKawiilSanders and Casar bill would ban superintelligent AI, impose 20-year prison terms
Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Greg Casar introduced the Ban Artificial Superintelligence Act, which would outlaw development of AI systems capable of humanity's 'destruction or disempowerment.' The bill would also pause development of advanced 'frontier' AI models until a new government agency, the Department of Artificial Intelligence, is created to license and oversee such work. Violators, including company leaders and unaffiliated individuals, could face up to 20 years in prison.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The proposal reflects growing unease among some lawmakers about AI safety and corporate self-regulation, framing the risk in terms comparable to nuclear weapons controls. Its prospects are uncertain given the current administration's embrace of the term 'superintelligence' and its push to accelerate AI development rather than restrict it. If enacted, it could significantly reshape how AI companies operate, requiring government permission before building advanced models.
- The bill would criminalize developing artificial superintelligence, with penalties up to 20 years in prison.
- It proposes creating a new federal Department of Artificial Intelligence to oversee and license frontier AI development.
- Sanders argues urgent restrictions are needed to prevent Big Tech from unilaterally controlling AI's trajectory.
Source: theverge.com — Emma Roth, 2026-09-23
Published there as: “Bernie Sanders proposes banning ‘superintelligence’ and putting violators in prison”
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