Senator Bernie Sanders announces bill to pause data center construction

Senator Bernie Sanders announced new legislation proposing a nationwide moratorium on the construction of AI data centers. The ban would be in effect until the federal government establishes robust national safeguards to ensure AI technology is both safe and effective, including a review and approval process for AI products before their release. The bill also seeks to ensure that the economic benefits from AI and robotics are distributed among ordinary Americans, rather than solely benefiting industry billionaires. Furthermore, it addresses concerns that AI data centers could increase electricity and utility prices, harm communities, or degrade the environment. An important component of the legislation includes a ban on the export of AI chips to any country lacking such protections, notably China. Senator Sanders emphasized that the moratorium would provide crucial time to comprehend the risks associated with AI, protect working families, safeguard democracy, and ensure the technology serves all citizens, not just a select few.