Senator Proposes AI Regulation Act: DeepSeek AI Downloads Could Be Criminalized

US Senator Introduces Bill That Could Criminalize Downloading DeepSeek AI

A US senator has introduced a bill that could potentially criminalize downloading DeepSeek AI, a controversial artificial intelligence model developed by a Chinese company. The bill, titled the "AI Regulation Act," aims to establish a regulatory framework for AI technology in the United States.

The bill, introduced by Senator Tim Scott (R-SC), would require AI developers to obtain a license from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) before distributing their models in the US. It would also impose penalties on individuals or companies that download or use unlicensed AI models, potentially including DeepSeek AI.

DeepSeek AI has been criticized for its potential misuse, as it can generate highly realistic but potentially misleading or harmful content. The bill's sponsor, Senator Scott, has expressed concerns about the potential for AI to be used to create deepfakes or spread disinformation.

The bill has been met with mixed reactions from the tech industry and AI developers. Some have praised the senator's efforts to establish a regulatory framework for AI, while others have criticized the bill's potential impact on innovation and free speech.

Meanwhile, the White House has announced plans to prioritize the regulation of stablecoins as part of a broader effort to establish a clear framework for digital assets. The newly appointed White House AI and crypto czar, David Sacks, has said that the administration is working with lawmakers to advance legislation through Congress within the next six months.

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Canadian investment firm Sol Strategies has significantly increased its Solana (SOL) holdings, buying 40,300 tokens between Jan. 19 and Jan. 3 at an average price of $246.53 per token. The latest acquisition brings Sol Strategies' total SOL holdings to 189,968 tokens worth roughly $40.9 million.