DURHAM, NC (March 20, 2026) - Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04), a member of the House, Science, Space, and Technology Committee released the following statement after the White House unveiled its National AI Legislative Framework:

"President Trump's AI framework falls short at a moment when Americans needs real protections and clear leadership, and when the American people are demanding action. As AI continues to transform our economy and society, Congress must put workers first, safeguard civil rights and civil liberties, and ensure these technologies are deployed responsibly and deliver real benefits to our communities--not just those at the top.

"This proposal lacks meaningful guardrails and ignores the real impacts AI is already having on jobs, communities, and local resources--from rising energy demand and skyrocketing costs to increased water use. It also takes the wrong approach by attempting to preempt state and local governments from acting. At a time when Congress has stalled and House Republican leadership has walked away from the bipartisan work of the House AI Task Force, we should not be tying the hands of local leaders who are responding to real concerns like youth online safety and consumer protection.

"We need a different path, one that expands opportunity and ensures every community can participate in and benefit from the AI economy, and that their voices are not just heard, but reflected in AI governance. Through efforts like my Expanding AI Voices Act and the HBCU Artificial Intelligence Research Leadership Act, I am working to broaden participation in AI and ensure that HBCUs and other institutions help shape the future of this technology. Workers, civil society, academia, and impacted communities must have a seat at the table in how AI is governed.

"Americans deserve transparency and accountability so they can understand how AI systems are being used and how they affect their lives. Creators, workers, and the public must be protected as these technologies evolve. The American people deserve more than a four-page "framework" -- they deserve action that puts people first, strengthens our workforce and our economy, and upholds our democratic values."