Sanders, Ocasio-Cortez propose bill to pause AI data center construction

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) have introduced the "AI Data Center Moratorium Act" in Congress, aiming to implement an immediate ban on the construction of new artificial intelligence (AI) data centers across the United States. Sanders expressed concerns that Congress is unprepared for the rapid and unchecked expansion of AI, emphasizing the need for urgency. The lawmakers are sounding the alarm about potential worker displacement due to AI and automation, advocating for national safeguards to protect workers, consumers, and the environment. They seek assurances that AI technology is safe and effective, preventing industry executives from releasing harmful products that could threaten public health, well-being, privacy, and civil rights. Additionally, Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez want to ensure that the economic gains from AI and robotics benefit workers, not solely "Big Tech," and prevent these centers from exacerbating electricity or utility prices or causing environmental damage. This legislative proposal contrasts with the Trump administration's recent plans for AI, which reportedly included limits on regulation and restrictions on states' abilities to pass their own regulations.