Capitol Corner: Promoting US Leadership in Standards Act would Boost U.S. Leadership in AI and Emerging Technologies

Overview 

In a bipartisan effort to secure the United States' position as a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies, Senators Mark Warner (D-VA) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) introduced the “Promoting United States Leadership in Standards Act of 2024.” The legislation aims to enhance U.S. participation in developing international technical standards crucial for future technological dominance. The measure has been referred to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation for further review and deliberation.  

Aims of the Legislation 

The primary objective of the proposed legislation is to bolster the U.S. role in setting global standards for AI and other critical technologies. By leveraging the expertise of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Department of State, the bill seeks to facilitate more active participation by U.S. federal agencies and industry stakeholders in international standards organizations. 

“This legislation clearly outlines steps we must take to reestablish our leadership and ensure that we are doing all we can to set the global standards for critical and emerging technologies,” said the bill’s Democrat sponsor, Senator Mark Warner of Virginia.  Senator Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee, the Republican sponsor of the legislation, added that the U.S. must be “a global leader in innovation, and that includes setting standards that reflect our interests and values.”  

Key Provisions 

The Act defines critical and emerging technologies as those identified by the National Science and Technology Council. The Director of NIST is tasked with various responsibilities under this Act, signifying the agency’s pivotal role in advancing these initiatives. 

A major component of the bill is a mandatory briefing from the NIST Director to Congress after the Act’s enactment. This briefing will evaluate and identify opportunities for enhanced federal participation in technical standards development for AI and emerging technologies and will provide: 

• An overview of current standards activities and key technical standards 

• Information on standards bodies and federal agency involvement 

• Analysis and recommendations to improve U.S. industry and federal agency participation in standards activities 

Transparent Collaboration 

To enhance transparency, the bill mandates the creation of an easy-to-access web portal. Managed by NIST, this portal will offer comprehensive information on international standards development efforts and provide guidance for U.S. industry and federal agencies on how to engage in these activities. 

The bill also introduces a pilot program to support hosting standards meetings within the United States, encouraging domestic participation and leadership at standards events.   
 

Strategic Implications 

The “Promoting United States Leadership in Standards Act of 2024” underscores the strategic importance of U.S. leadership in the development of technical standards for AI and other emerging technologies. As global competition intensifies, establishing a robust framework for U.S. participation in international standards bodies is seen as vital for maintaining economic and technological expertise. 

By enhancing federal coordination, providing accessible information, and supporting domestic standards collaboration, the bill aims to position the United States at the forefront of technological innovation. This proactive approach is designed to ensure that U.S. standards and values are integral to the global technological landscape. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it is expected to garner significant attention from industry stakeholders and policymakers alike, highlighting the critical intersection of technology, policy, and international competitiveness. 

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