Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Greg Casar introduced the Ban Artificial Superintelligence Act on Wednesday, seeking to permanently prohibit the development of AI systems that exceed human cognitive capabilities or pose risks of disempowering humanity.

The bill, unveiled in Washington, would also pause advanced AI development until a new cabinet-level Department of Artificial Intelligence establishes rigorous safety rules and oversight mechanisms. Sanders, an independent from Vermont, and Casar, a Democrat from Texas, framed the measure as essential to prevent unchecked progress by technology companies.

Under the proposal, artificial superintelligence is defined as any AI that matches or surpasses human performance across most domains or holds capabilities sufficient to destroy or disempower humanity, including by overthrowing the federal government. The legislation would bar any person or entity from developing or deploying such systems.

Advanced AI models would face a temporary halt pending approval processes from the proposed new department, which would be advised by a board of scientific experts. The agency would monitor systems throughout their lifecycle, enforce prohibitions, and coordinate with the State Department on international agreements.

Penalties for violations include up to 20 years in prison for individuals and a corporate death penalty for companies, modeled on existing laws governing the unlawful development of nuclear weapons. The bill draws parallels to those statutes in its enforcement approach.

Sanders stated that scientists view AI as an existential threat requiring immediate federal intervention. The measure has drawn endorsements from some employees at leading AI firms, according to statements from the lawmakers' offices.

Critics of similar regulatory efforts have warned that broad restrictions could slow American technological leadership in a field where global competition remains intense. The bill's introduction comes amid ongoing debates over AI safety and the role of government oversight in emerging technologies.