Bills Introduced – 5-16-23

Yesterday, with both the House and Senate in session, there were 70 bills introduced. Of those bills, three may receive additional attention in this blog:

HR 3356 To amend title 49, United States Code, with respect to employment screening for the motor carrier industry, and for other purposes. Graves, Garret [Rep.-R-LA-6] 

HR 3369 To direct the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to conduct a study and hold public meetings with respect to artificial intelligence systems, and for other purposes. Harder, Josh [Rep.-D-CA-9] 

S 1631 A bill to enhance the authority granted to the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Justice with respect to unmanned aircraft systems and unmanned aircraft, and for other purposes. Peters, Gary C. [Sen.-D-MI]

I will be covering S 1631.

I will be watching HR 3356 for language and definitions that might expand the terrorist vetting requirements currently in place for Hazardous Materials Endorsements for Commercial Drivers Licenses. I really do not think that that is what this bill is about.

I will be watching HR 3369 for language and definitions that specifically include the us of AI in control systems or medical devices within the scope of the legislation.

Comment in Passing

There were two bills introduced yesterday (HR 3359 and S 1619) that would require the Secretary of Defense to develop a strategy to counter fentanyl trafficking in the United States, and for other purposes. I understand the Republican fascination with fentanyl and even share some of their concerns, but this is a law enforcement issue within the United States, a State Department issue outside, and a DHS issue at the border. Trying to engage the DOD in counter-drug operations has been and will continue to be an improper use of their particular skills and equipment, particularly within the boundaries of this country.