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Teachers Union Calls for AI Tax, K-12 Screen Ban

5/28/2026

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Center

Union Limits AI

The union proposes a technology tax to fund AI safety research and mitigate AI-related job disruption.
The American Federation of Teachers is urging limits on AI tools for K-12 students, those under grade three or sixteen.
President Randi Weingarten announced student AI rollbacks at a National Press Club briefing on Wednesday.
The union calls for banning screens for children under grade three, except for disability support.

Left

Lawmakers Tax AI

Lawmakers argue AI regulation must fund universal health care, free education and a jobs guarantee for displaced workers.
A bill introduced by U.S. lawmakers bans student-facing AI tutors in elementary schools and companion chatbots for anyone under sixteen.
They propose an AI tax so profits serve all Americans instead of a wealthy few.
The plan also calls for tighter oversight of private-credit AI financing to safeguard the economy.

History

Historical Context

In 1996 President Bill Clinton signed the Telecommunications Act, creating a universal service fund funded by a surcharge on carriers such as AT&T and Verizon. The fund spurred broadband expansion, and by 2001 four incumbents controlled about 85% of infrastructure—a precedent the American Federation of Teachers and lawmakers cite while proposing an AI tax to fund safety research and social services.

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Union Limits AI

The union proposes a technology tax to fund AI safety research and mitigate AI-related job disruption.
The American Federation of Teachers is urging limits on AI tools for K-12 students, those under grade three or sixteen.
President Randi Weingarten announced student AI rollbacks at a National Press Club briefing on Wednesday.
The union calls for banning screens for children under grade three, except for disability support.

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