As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more central to economic and social life, policymakers are increasingly grappling with whether and how to regulate its development. While much attention has focused on executive action and state-level initiatives, little is known about how members of Congress frame and debate AI regulation. This paper examines one of the most consequential legislative episodes to date: the 2025 debate over a proposed federal moratorium on state AI regulation embedded within the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB). Drawing on transcripts from congressional hearings and floor debates, this study analyzes the arguments made for and against the moratorium. The findings reveal clear partisan divides: Republicans emphasize competitiveness and national security, while Democrats focus on privacy, equity, child safety, and procedural objections. Strikingly, the moratorium attracted relatively little sustained attention, suggesting that AI regulation may remain a secondary concern when embedded in larger legislative packages.

Authors:
Siona Listokin, George Mason University, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Siona Listokin-Smith is an associate professor in the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University. This study examines the U.S. Congressional debates over artificial intelligence regulation in the 2025 reconciliation bill.

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