LIFT AI Act

Full Title:
LIFT AI Act

Summary#

This bill, called the LIFT AI Act, directs the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to make merit-reviewed, competitive awards to colleges, universities, or nonprofit organizations (or consortia) to support research and development of K-12 artificial intelligence (AI) literacy. Funded activities may develop student curricula, teacher professional development, evaluation tools, hands-on learning tools, and ways to add AI literacy into existing courses. The bill defines "AI literacy" as age-appropriate knowledge and ability to use AI, interpret its outputs, solve problems in an AI-enabled world, and reduce potential risks. The Director may run these awards through new or existing NSF programs. The bill also states Congress's view that AI is changing the world, that the United States should promote AI literacy in youth and educators, and that awards should focus on skills that remain relevant as AI evolves.

What it means for you#

  • K-12 students: schools could gain new AI-focused lessons and hands-on activities to help students learn how AI works and how to use it responsibly.
  • Teachers and school leaders: may get professional learning and training, including in-person and virtual options, to teach AI literacy and best practices.
  • Schools and districts: can expect tools for assessing students' AI skills and help integrating AI topics into existing classes.
  • Colleges and nonprofits: are eligible to compete for NSF awards to design and pilot materials and training.

Expenses#

No publicly available information.

Proponents' View#

The bill says AI is rapidly changing the world and that promoting AI literacy in K-12 education and teacher training will help the United States remain a leader, build an AI-ready workforce, and prepare students to use and evaluate AI responsibly. It also notes strategic concerns about other countries using AI for surveillance or weaponization and emphasizes focusing on durable skills and student progression.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.