In a significant move to democratize access to artificial intelligence (AI) technology, proponents of the CREATE AI Act are making a final push in Congress. The bill aims to establish a public AI resource and data hub, providing cheaper access to AI tools that are currently dominated by major companies like Google and Microsoft. This bipartisan effort is led by Democratic Senator Maria Cantwell and co-sponsored by Republican Senators Todd Young and Mike Rounds [25ff637b].
The CREATE AI Act has garnered support from 77 institutions, including tech giant Amazon and various universities, which signed a letter urging Congress to pass the legislation. Advocates, including Russell Wald from the Stanford Institute, emphasize the bill's importance for U.S. national security and innovation, arguing that it will help level the playing field for smaller businesses and researchers [25ff637b].
However, concerns have been raised by the AI Now Institute regarding the potential entrenchment of corporate power that could arise from the bill. Critics warn that while the intention is to democratize access, the implementation could inadvertently favor established tech companies [25ff637b].
In parallel, members of the Senate, including Maria Cantwell and Jerry Moran, have introduced the Small Business Artificial Intelligence Training and Toolkit Act of 2024. This bipartisan bill seeks to authorize the Department of Commerce to collaborate with the Small Business Administration to develop and distribute resources and tools for AI training specifically for small businesses [d15dee5d].
The Small Business AI Act aims to enhance small enterprises' financial management, business planning, and supply chain capabilities through AI training. It also proposes a grant program for organizations providing AI training, particularly focusing on rural and tribal communities [d15dee5d].
Intuit CFO Sandeep Aujla has highlighted how AI can significantly benefit small businesses by saving time and improving cash flows. Intuit's generative AI engine, Intuit Assist, helps automate various tasks, allowing small business owners to focus on growth and customer engagement [1f282c8e].
Additionally, a Senate bill introduced by Senators Joe Manchin and Lisa Murkowski aims to increase the Department of Energy's (DOE) adoption of AI for scientific advancements related to national security and energy. This bill outlines provisions for establishing an AI program within the DOE and emphasizes the need for strategic planning and workforce development in AI [48b6e4f3].
The CREATE AI Act and the Small Business AI Training Act represent a broader recognition of the potential of AI to drive innovation and economic growth. As these bipartisan initiatives progress through Congress, their outcomes could significantly shape the landscape of AI access and utilization in the United States [48b6e4f3].