Ranking Member Edward J. Markey of Massachusetts has raised concerns about the use of an artificial intelligence tool, known as the “DOGE AI Deregulation Decision Tool,” by the Small Business Administration (SBA). In a letter sent to SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler, Markey questioned the transparency and oversight surrounding the deployment of this tool, which is reportedly being used to alter or remove regulations that affect small business owners.
Markey stated in his letter, “SBA’s rules and regulations are the foundation of the programs small businesses rely on for loans, technical assistance, and disaster relief, as many of SBA's programs are established primarily through rules and regulations. If the 'Deregulation Tool’ eliminates them, it will gut the services entrepreneurs depend on and dismantle protections designed to level the playing field.”
He also highlighted potential risks associated with using artificial intelligence without proper safeguards. “Although AI has many promising uses, the development and deployment of AI-powered algorithms also comes with serious risks. Without proper testing and oversight, algorithms can undermine protections for civil rights, workers, the environment, consumers, and our democracy. That is unacceptable. We need transparency and public accountability, and DOGE’s ‘Deregulation Tool’ is operating with neither,” Markey wrote.
In his letter, Markey requested detailed information from SBA by September 5 regarding authorization for using the tool; its compliance with federal security standards; which rules have been targeted for revision or removal; internal review processes; oversight responsibilities; customization methods; use of personal data in training; and other AI systems currently in use at SBA.
The issue reflects ongoing debate over how federal agencies should implement artificial intelligence tools while maintaining transparency and protecting sensitive information.
