The proposed Consumer Safety Technology Act, introduced by Congressman Darren Soto and reported out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee last week, shines a welcome spotlight on the potential for AI tools to enhance CPSC’s ability to prevent dangerous products of all kinds from reaching consumers. The legislation would direct the agency to create a pilot program that lays the groundwork for deploying AI technology in service of CPSC’s consumer safety mission. As Congressman Soto aptly noted in highlighting the promise of AI as a CPSC enforcement tool, “the crooks already have artificial intelligence, so the cops on the beat need to have AI, too.” ¹

I am very encouraged by this proposal, given the rapid advances in AI as well as the proliferation of AI-enabled consumer products. I believe that CPSC should play an active role in identifying potential safety risks, educating the public if and when hazards become apparent, and taking part as appropriate in setting standards to prevent harm before it becomes widespread. To do that, CPSC needs to build capacity in data collection and technical analysis related to products that incorporate AI. We need to foster communication and cooperation with industry when it comes to relevant safety standards under CPSC’s unique statutory scheme. Engaging with digital innovators will require new outreach and expectation-setting for technology companies, as they embed AI into everyday kinds of products used by American consumers. And it is important to emphasize that CPSC’s engagement is consistent with promoting innovation; in fact, when innovation and safety are aligned, consumers and businesses all benefit.

As a longtime advocate at CPSC for the safety of children, I am particularly concerned about the prospect of AI products, including toys, that simulate human companionship and potentially manipulate children and teens in harmful ways. These generative AI technologies are still so new and are moving so quickly that we all need to pay attention. Otherwise, our society may find itself conducting experiments on children with regrettable consequences, like those seen with some social media.

To meet the moment, we will need to be good stewards of agency resources, which have become increasingly constrained. Even so, I have great confidence in the dedicated professionals of the CPSC staff. For over 50 years, as countless new consumer products have been invented and sold, this independent agency has prioritized and adapted, while keeping its focus on safety. The same should hold true for AI.

¹ Consumer product regulators would get AI assist from House bill | FedScoop