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119-hr-9341119th Congress

AI-Ready Federal Data Guidelines Act

Sponsored By: Representative Babin, Brian [R-TX-36]

In Committee

Summary

This bill would create AI-ready federal data guidelines to help federal agencies prepare open datasets for training artificial intelligence models. It would set voluntary standards for formatting, labeling, quality checks, metadata, maintenance, and automated access, and it would authorize short pilot programs and annual briefings to Congress.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 3 mixed.

Voluntary AI data guidelines for agencies

If enacted, NIST would be required to write voluntary guidance to help federal agencies prepare datasets for training artificial intelligence models. The guidance would cover file formats and structure, labeling and annotation (including automated and expert methods), data quality checks, metadata and documentation, and ongoing data maintenance. The guidance would aim to work across scientific fields and be consistent with OMB Circular A-119 when practicable. The guidance could also include ways to assess whether datasets meet the guidelines.

Short pilots for AI dataset checks

If enacted, the NIST Director could run up to two concurrent pilot programs, each lasting no more than one year, to develop conformity assessment procedures for AI-ready datasets. Pilots would make sector- or domain-specific supplemental guidance, test usability and interoperability, identify technical and resource challenges, and, as practicable, prepare materials for transition to a non‑Federal entity. Pilot topics would prioritize areas tied to national security or competitiveness, like biotechnology and biomanufacturing.

Bar on using other NIST funds

If enacted, the bill would bar the NIST Director from transferring or reprogramming funds from any other NIST program, project, office, or activity to carry out the AI-ready data guidelines work. This means NIST would need separate appropriations or other funding to implement the guidance. The restriction could limit or slow implementation unless Congress provides new funds.

Definitions for AI data rules

If enacted, the bill would add statutory definitions for terms used in the NIST AI data guidance. Definitions would cover agency, artificial intelligence (by reference), AI model, AI system, biomanufacturing, conformity assessment procedure, the NIST Director, institutions of higher education, National Laboratories, and open Government data assets. These definitions would clarify which entities and data the guidance covers.

Repeal of a NIST subsection

If enacted, the bill would repeal subsection (f) of section 22A of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 278h-1). The text does not provide funding or describe direct household-facing rights or payments tied to this repeal. The legal change may alter NIST's authorities or duties tied to that subsection.

Sponsors & CoSponsors

Sponsor

Babin, Brian [R-TX-36]

TX • R

Cosponsors

  • Rep. Lofgren, Zoe [D-CA-18]

    CA • D

    Sponsored 6/18/2026

Roll Call Votes

No roll call votes available for this bill.

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