U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, addressed the committee during a hearing focused on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on American families and the workforce.
Cassidy opened by stating, "Everyone here, everyone watching on C-SPAN is impacted by artificial intelligence. AI is transforming not only how we work and learn, but how we live." He highlighted several ways AI is already influencing the healthcare system, such as improving clinical trials and reducing administrative burdens to lower costs.
He noted recent government investment in AI research: "Last week, the Trump administration dedicated $50 million to AI research in NIH’s Childhood Cancer Data Initiative – accelerating breakthroughs and giving hope to children fighting cancer. The FDA is also integrating AI into its clinical protocol reviews, reducing the time needed for scientific evaluations and getting safe treatments to families faster."
Cassidy also pointed out AI’s applications outside healthcare. "Beyond health care, AI can help teachers personalize their students’ education to meet their unique needs. Businesses are implementing AI in the workplace to attract, hire, and retain high-value workers. Additionally, investment advisors are using AI to better tailor product offerings to maximize savings for Americans."
While acknowledging the promise of AI, Cassidy warned of associated risks. He referenced a recent Judiciary Subcommittee hearing chaired by Senator Hawley where parents described their children being exploited by AI platforms. "I’d like to submit for the record the testimony of Megan Garcia, who said her son, 'spent his last months being manipulated and sexually groomed by chatbots,' before he took his own life. This is heartbreaking and unacceptable."
To address these dangers, Cassidy stated: "That is why Senator Hawley and I wrote a letter to developers calling for stronger safeguards to protect children from harm. I look forward to working with him more on this effort."
Cassidy addressed potential workforce disruptions from AI. He stated that although some jobs may be lost due to automation, many experts predict new jobs will be created. He emphasized the need for Americans to receive training suitable for an AI-driven economy.
He added that while innovation should not be stifled, there must be protections in place: "Government should not stifle innovation in AI, but it should absolutely make sure that privacy is protected, that families are protected, that children are safe and that there are safeguards in place between AI and workers. A one-size-fits-all approach will not work. But something is needed."
Cassidy concluded by expressing willingness to collaborate with colleagues on bipartisan solutions regarding these challenges and thanked witnesses for their participation.
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