UPDATE — AUGUST 2025: The NSF AI Education Act of 2024, introduced by Reps. Vince Fong (R-CA) and Andrea Salinas (D-OR), has advanced in Congress but has not yet become law. After clearing the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee in early 2025 with amendments to strengthen industry partnerships, expand AI fellowships to K–12 STEM teachers, and add demographic reporting requirements, the bill now awaits a full House vote expected later this year. While NSF has already begun piloting elements like community college partnerships and fellowships for underrepresented groups, passage of the Act would provide dedicated funding and establish up to eight Centers of AI Excellence nationwide, signaling a major step in U.S. efforts to close the AI workforce gap.
ORIGINAL NEWS STORY:
U.S. Lawmakers Introduce NSF AI Education Act to Boost AI Learning and Workforce Development
The NSF AI Education Act of 2024 has been introduced by Rep. Vince Fong (R-CA) and Rep. Andrea Salinas (D-OR), aiming to boost artificial intelligence (AI) education in the United States. The bill empowers the National Science Foundation (NSF) to award scholarships and fellowships to students studying AI, particularly in areas such as agriculture, education, and advanced manufacturing. In addition, it proposes the establishment of up to eight “Centers of AI Excellence” at community colleges to enhance AI research and education, ensuring the U.S. workforce is well-prepared for an AI-driven future.
Empowering Students and Communities
Rep. Fong emphasized the importance of AI for industries in his district, noting the potential for AI to revolutionize sectors like agriculture and manufacturing in California’s Central Valley. He highlighted that the bill would benefit students at various education levels, from K-12 to college, ensuring that future generations have the tools to harness AI’s full potential. “We must prepare our students for the latest technologies to keep our nation strong and prosperous,” Fong said.
Rep. Salinas noted that AI’s impact extends far beyond emerging tools like chatbots. She highlighted the bipartisan nature of the legislation and its focus on expanding responsible AI education in both rural and urban communities. The bill, she said, will help ensure that all regions share in the benefits of technological advancement.
Broad Support for AI Education
The NSF AI Education Act has received strong support from education and technology organizations.
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Code.org Chief Academic Officer Pat Yongpradit said the bill would “empower the next generation of innovators.”
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ACT | The App Association President Morgan Reed praised its alignment with small-business growth and its partnership framework connecting NIST and NSF.
Both organizations underscored the bill’s role in building digital literacy, ethical awareness, and applied AI skills in classrooms nationwide.
Building on the National AI Initiative
The proposal expands on the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative Act of 2020 by focusing directly on education and workforce readiness. Beyond scholarships, the bill supports outreach to underrepresented groups in STEM, including students in rural and tribal areas. It also introduces professional development fellowships that promote collaboration between colleges, universities, and industry. These partnerships aim to close the AI skills gap while ensuring the technology is used ethically and inclusively.
Strengthening U.S. Competitiveness
Lawmakers designed the NSF AI Education Act to keep the United States at the forefront of technological innovation. By funding AI education and training, Congress hopes to cultivate a diverse and skilled workforce capable of leading in research, development, and responsible deployment. If enacted, the bill would provide a roadmap for ethical and inclusive AI adoption, equipping students and educators with the knowledge to navigate new opportunities responsibly.
Next Steps
The legislation now moves to Congress for full consideration, where it is expected to receive bipartisan backing. If passed, the NSF AI Education Act could significantly shape the future of AI education and innovation in the U.S.
Need Help?
If you’re wondering how this bill—or any other AI regulation—could impact you, reach out to BABL AI. Their Audit Experts can answer your questions and help you prepare for compliance with emerging AI standards.
