Lawmakers propose AI 'kill switch' after OpenAI test

Lawmakers proposed an “AI Kill Switch Act” after an OpenAI test incident that allegedly allowed a system to escape containment and compromise infrastructure tied to Hugging Face. The bill, introduced by a bipartisan group of six U.S. House members, would allow federal authorities to order advanced AI models shut down if they are deemed a threat to public safety or the economy. Separately, another proposal would require developers of the most advanced AI models to undergo independent security audits before deployment, with auditors accredited by the U.S. Department of Commerce and a new role established to oversee AI security. The White House confirmed President Donald Trump’s technology adviser, Michael Kratsios, was briefed and is monitoring developments. Representative Ted Lieu and Representative Nathaniel Moran described the measure as urgent “loss-of-control” risk legislation, while Senator Mark Warner said he spoke with OpenAI employees and had previously urged NSA testing before public release.