US Artificial Intelligence Caucus proposes the creation of an AI research centre

In a joint effort to promote accessible and inclusive AI development, representatives of the Artificial Intelligence Caucus of the US Congress have come together to propose the establishment of the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR). Announced in a press release, the innovative public research centre aims to democratise AI research and competition by providing individuals, entrepreneurs and organisations with access to essential AI tools.

Spearheaded by Rep. Anna Eshoo (D-CA) and Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM), the legislation highlights the significance of allowing researchers from universities, nonprofits, and government entities to harness AI technology rather than just behemothic private companies. The bill, aptly named the “Creating Resources for Every American To Experiment with Artificial Intelligence Act” (or CREATE AI Act), seeks to engage all levels of society in creating ethical, transparent and comprehensive AI technology.

The National AI Research Resource Task Force (NAIRRTF), established as a part of the National AI Act of 2020, published its final report in January this year, with the objective of increasing the accessibility, infrastructure and inclusivity of the United States AI environment. The CREATE AI Act incorporates numerous suggestions from the NAIRR Task Force, taking significant steps towards achieving their goal.

The bill does not prescribe a definite funding amount, but it highlights bipartisan enthusiasm for creating the NAIRR, illustrated by recent efforts to tackle AI-specific challenges, competitiveness and transparency. The NAIRRTF has estimated an annual budget of approximately $440 million for the centre, but the bill itself does not endorse this precise sum taken from their final report.