House bill calls for AI task force within Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency

As more governments and businesses seek what artificial intelligence (AI) can offer, U.S. Reps. Troy Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Bennie Thompson (D-MS) want to make certain guardrails are in place through new legislation and a new federal task force.

In the recently introduced Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Securing AI Task Force Act, the pair proposed the creation of a task force dedicated solely to the safety and security challenges presented by AI. That task force would, as the name implies, operate within CISA, at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Task force members could include various offices and divisions, all focused on that narrower subject.

“I’m proud to introduce this bill, a critical step towards managing the impact of AI on our cybersecurity landscape,” the lawmakers said. “This Task Force will enhance the safe and secure design, development, adoption, and deployment of AI across critical sectors by bringing together diverse expertise within CISA. As AI continues to evolve and integrate into our daily lives, this measure highlights our commitment to proactive risk mitigation and preparedness. The CISA Securing AI Task Force Act will strengthen America’s cybersecurity framework, safeguarding against emerging threats and ensuring the responsible advancement of AI technologies.”

If authorized, the task force would be cleared to coordinate improvements to the safety and security of design, development, adoption and deployment of AI, analyze relevant initiatives and workforce gaps, and ultimately advise stakeholders on possible cyber challenges that AI poses. To maintain accountability, the task force would also be required to report to the House Committee on Homeland Security and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate on a biannual basis.

Carter is a member of the House Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection Subcommittee, while Thompson is the ranking member of the House Homeland Security Committee.