Illustration: Lazaro Gamio/Axios
The Senate Armed Services Committee's version of the annual defense policy bill features an array of provisions focused on AI and emerging tech.
Why it matters: AI legislation is going to advance by hitching a ride on must-pass bills like the National Defense Authorization Act.
What they're saying: Sen. Mike Rounds told Axios this week that the NDAA is filled with AI provisions, and "on a committee-by-committee basis, you're going to see lots of opportunities for addressing the incentives for AI, and in some cases, proposing modifications to existing rules to incorporate AI."
- He added: "I don't see a megabill coming in on AI."
What's inside: The Senate's defense policy bill is stuffed with dozens of provisions related to the Pentagon's study and use of AI, quantum and emerging tech, including:
- Requiring a pilot program on using AI-enabled software for DOD shipyards, depots and manufacturing facilities, and other pilots on emerging tech and AI and biotech applications for national security.
- Creating a Multilateral Artificial Intelligence Working Group to develop and coordinate an AI initiative among U.S. allies and partners.
- Establishing a DARPA initiative to "rapidly" expand and support the development of quantum computing capability available to the Pentagon.
The bill also calls on DOD leadership to clarify the roles and responsibilities of its AI workforce and to develop a budget process for programs with AI components that includes estimated data costs.
The House passed its version of the NDAA last month largely along party lines, 217–199.
- Among its tech policy provisions, it includes a call for DOD to create a quantum center to accelerate the transition of advanced quantum and quantum hybrid computing technology from the R&D phase into operational use.
What's next: Once the Senate passes its version of the NDAA, the two chambers need to resolve the differences between the bills.
- Both chambers will need to vote on the final version before sending it to the president's desk.
