Trump Administration Unveils AI Policy Framework

On Wednesday, the Trump administration released its framework for artificial intelligence (AI) policy, aiming to enhance US innovation, establish data center infrastructure, and promote American technology abroad.

The 28-page AI Action Plan outlines the administration’s strategy for accelerating technological advancement, proposing over 90 policy measures intended for quick implementation by the federal government.

“We believe we are in the AI race,” stated David Sacks, the White House AI and Crypto Czar, during a phone call with reporters. “There’s currently a global competition to lead in artificial intelligence, and we hope that the US will emerge victorious.”

“AI is a groundbreaking technology that deeply influences both the economy and national security,” he added. “That’s why it’s crucial for Americans to remain at the forefront of AI development.”

The plan aims to eliminate what the administration sees as hindering regulations at both federal and state levels. This includes restricting funding for states in relation to AI regulations and having the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) evaluate whether state regulations impede their objectives.

Additionally, the framework suggests reviewing the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) investigation that began under the Biden administration.

“We cannot afford to take the regulatory route that stifles innovation like in Europe,” remarked Michael Krazios, director of White House Science and Technology Policy.

“Federal agencies are currently assessing existing rules and working to eliminate barriers that hinder the development and deployment of AI across various sectors, including finance, agriculture, health, and transportation,” he noted.

The AI Action Plan also urges the Department of Commerce to revise the AI risk framework, remove mentions of misinformation, climate change, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) while limiting contracts that treat AI system information as “objective and free from bias.”

The framework emphasizes the importance of developing AI data centers and energy infrastructure. In addition to fast-tracking efforts, it seeks to provide data centers with various exemptions or permits from federal environmental regulations.

There’s also a push for making federal land available for constructing data centers and the necessary power generation infrastructure.