Congress Introduces Bipartisan AI Bill Targeting Deepfakes and Whistleblower Protections

On April 27, 2026, Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA) introduced a comprehensive AI bill in the House, co-sponsored by Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-CA). The measure seeks to criminalize the malicious distribution of deepfake and non-consensual synthetic media and to extend legal safeguards for individuals who report AI safety risks. It builds directly on recommendations from the bipartisan House AI Task Force.

CNBCWhat Does The New AI Bill Say About Deepfakes And Safety?

The bill derives from the bipartisan House AI Task Force, co-chaired by Lieu and Obernolte. The task force’s final report outlined voluntary safeguards and urged U.S. participation in global AI standards bodies. The legislation deliberately avoids more contentious issues, such as federal preemption of state AI laws or mandatory testing requirements for AI systems used in critical infrastructure, education, or other sensitive sectors.

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The proposal contains three main elements. First, it creates civil and criminal penalties for deepfake and non-consensual synthetic media distribution. Second, it establishes whistleblower protections that shield reporters of AI safety concerns from retaliation. Third, it mandates U.S. involvement in international AI standards development and funds a prize competition to spur breakthrough AI research.

What Does The New AI Bill Say About Deepfakes And Safety?

Rep. Lieu told CNBC the bill is “a step forward” and stressed it “is not designed to be controversial.” He said it “is based on bipartisan legislation … and the recommendations of the bipartisan House AI Task Force,” adding that Congress intends to act on it this term. Obernolte expressed support for the bill’s objectives and indicated he will introduce a separate AI package later in 2026.

CNBCWhat Does The New AI Bill Say About Deepfakes And Safety?

• “It is not designed to be controversial,” — Rep. Ted Lieu, D-CA

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• “It is based on bipartisan legislation that other members have introduced, as well as the recommendations of the bipartisan House AI Task Force.” — Rep. Ted Lieu, D-CA

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• “It is based on bipartisan legislation that other members have introduced, as well as the recommendations of the bipartisan House AI Task Force. So we're trying to do something this term right now with this bill.” — Rep. Ted Lieu, D-CA

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The bill addresses deepfake and non-consensual synthetic media, which have raised privacy concerns and the risk of malicious distribution. By criminalizing such misuse and shielding whistleblowers, the legislation seeks to protect individuals while promoting responsible AI development through a research prize and participation in international standards bodies.

What Does The New AI Bill Say About Deepfakes And Safety?

Obernolte’s forthcoming AI package is expected to complement Lieu’s bill, potentially expanding oversight. Both proposals are slated for further congressional consideration in 2026, and their provisions could shape U.S. participation in global AI standards and influence future regulation of synthetic media.

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