The proposed framework would establish limits on military AI use and domestic surveillance amid ongoing disputes over federal AI oversight

Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) is drafting legislation to establish guardrails on the use of AI in autonomous weapons and domestic surveillance, according to a March 13, 2026, press release from his office.

The proposal, in its early drafting stages and not yet formally introduced, would seek to limit how federal agencies deploy AI in national security and law enforcement contexts. It would apply broadly to federal departments, including defense and intelligence agencies, and is expected to address both battlefield applications and the use of AI for monitoring individuals within the United States.

In a statement accompanying the announcement, Schiff said, “Commonsense safeguards are critical to protect the privacy, values, and national security interests of the American people, and after consulting with industry and experts, I’ll be introducing legislation in the coming weeks to codify vital protections.”

The draft effort follows recent tensions between the Department of War and Anthropic over restrictions on the company’s technology in government systems. The fallout came to a head in early March when the Department of War designated Anthropic as a supply chain risk, followed by a lawsuit filed by Anthropic against the Department of War.

Schiff’s office said the legislative effort is being developed in consultation with other lawmakers, though no co-sponsors have been formally announced. 

The proposal remains in draft form and has not been introduced in either chamber of Congress. No timeline for formal introduction or committee consideration has been provided.