Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Greg Casar introduced legislation today to outlaw superintelligent artificial intelligence.

The bill would ban the development of AI systems smarter than humans.

It also calls for an immediate pause on the most advanced models now in training.

Sanders argues that unchecked superintelligence poses an existential threat to humanity.

The proposal creates a new federal Department of Artificial Intelligence to enforce the ban.

Supporters say the measure is necessary to protect workers, democracy, and public safety.

Critics warn that such a prohibition could cripple American technological leadership.

The legislation arrives as major labs race toward ever-more-powerful systems.

Lawmakers have grown increasingly alarmed by warnings from AI researchers themselves.

The bill would impose criminal penalties on companies that violate the superintelligence ban.

Congressional staff say the proposal is designed to force a national debate.

Similar efforts have failed in past sessions, yet momentum appears stronger this time.

Observers expect fierce lobbying from Silicon Valley in the weeks ahead.

The measure now heads to committees in both the House and Senate.

That's the Ankor.