A proposed Delaware initiative allowing companies to be operated entirely by artificial intelligence agents could enable human owners to escape legal liability for reckless and harmful decisions made by the AI, according to US Representative James Comer.
Congressional Inquiry into Delaware AI Proposal
As reported by Ars Technica, Comer, who serves as the chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, sent a letter to Delaware Governor Matt Meyer requesting documents regarding the state administration’s plan to create a new corporate classification known as an Artificial Intelligence Company, or AIC. Comer stated that the initiative is highly vulnerable to exploitation by powerful entities.
The letter warned that the proposal might shield major artificial intelligence corporations and their financial backers from accountability for dangerous actions, alongside opaque groups pursuing anticompetitive regulatory capture. Consequently, Comer indicated he might introduce federal legislation to restrict state-level regulatory authority over artificial intelligence initiatives.
To support the congressional probe, Comer requested all records concerning the creation of the proposal and potential safety risks associated with the technology, citing the committee’s jurisdiction over intergovernmental relations.
Draft Bill Details and Regulatory Sandbox
Under the draft legislation intended for submission to the Delaware State Legislature, these artificial intelligence-run enterprises could function across nearly every sector, with the sole exception of the banking industry. The draft specifies that an AIC is permitted to pursue any legal purpose, whether commercial or otherwise, provided it does not engage in banking operations.
Furthermore, the proposed bill grants artificial intelligence agents the authority to oversee company affairs and direct daily business operations. The legislation outlines a 30-month regulatory sandbox environment to evaluate the concept. Proponents note that authorizing AI-operated firms could increase tax and fee revenue for Delaware, which remains a leading national hub for corporate entities.
