US lawmakers propose AI superintelligence ban and NYC regulation bills

Legislative efforts to regulate artificial intelligence are intensifying at both the local and federal levels in the United States. In New York City, the City Council has introduced a package of bills targeting AI companies. These proposals include mandating “kill switches”—human overrides to shut down systems—and requiring third-party validation for AI deployment. The council also plans to establish a whistleblower program that offers cash rewards to informants, funded by fines collected from non-compliant companies.

At the federal level, Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Greg Casar have introduced the Ban Artificial Superintelligence Act. The bill proposes a permanent ban on artificial superintelligence—defined as systems that exceed human cognitive capabilities or threaten humanity—and calls for a temporary pause on advanced AI development. To oversee these technologies, the legislation seeks to create a cabinet-level Department of Artificial Intelligence. Violations of these federal rules could result in up to 20 years in prison for individuals and a “corporate death penalty” for entities.

Adding to the momentum, Bill Gates has publicly advocated for government intervention, stating that industry self-regulation is insufficient to manage the risks posed by increasingly powerful AI systems.