Eliminating Bias in Algorithmic Systems Act of 2026
Latest action (15 Jan 2026): Introduced
What this bill does
The Eliminating Bias in Algorithmic Systems Act of 2026, introduced by Sen. Ed Markey and several co-sponsors, would require federal agencies that use, fund, procure, or oversee certain complex computational systems—described as "covered algorithms," including those using machine learning, natural language processing, or artificial intelligence—to maintain an office of civil rights staffed with experts and technologists. These offices would focus on identifying and addressing bias, discrimination, or other harms tied to protected characteristics such as race, sex, disability, national origin, age, income level, and others listed in the bill.
The bill primarily affects federal agencies whose programs, regulated economic opportunities, or protected rights could be materially affected by such algorithms. These agencies would be required to report every two years to the congressional committees overseeing them, describing the state of algorithmic bias risks, mitigation steps taken, stakeholder engagement, and any recommendations for further legislative or administrative action. The Justice Department's Civil Rights Division would also be directed to establish an interagency working group, including these civil rights offices, to coordinate on algorithm-related civil rights issues. The bill authorizes appropriations as needed to implement these requirements.
The bill was introduced on January 15, 2026, and referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. As of the latest action, it has not advanced beyond introduction, and would need committee consideration, floor votes in both chambers, and the President's signature to become law.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Official summary
This bill is in the first stage of the legislative process. It was introduced into Congress on January 15, 2026. It will typically be considered by committee next before it is possibly sent on to the House or Senate as a whole.
Common questions
- What does S. 3680 do?
- The Eliminating Bias in Algorithmic Systems Act of 2026, introduced by Sen. Ed Markey and several co-sponsors, would require federal agencies that use, fund, procure, or oversee certain complex computational systems—described as "covered algorithms," including those using machine learning, natural language processing, or artificial intelligence—to maintain an office of civil rights staffed with experts and technologists. These offices would focus on identifying and addressing bias, discrimination, or other harms tied to protected characteristics such as race, sex, disability, national origin, age, income level, and others listed in the bill. The bill primarily affects federal agencies whose programs, regulated economic opportunities, or protected rights could be materially affected by such algorithms. These agencies would be required to report every two years to the congressional committees overseeing them, describing the state of algorithmic bias risks, mitigation steps taken, stakeholder engagement, and any recommendations for further legislative or administrative action. The Justice Department's Civil Rights Division would also be directed to establish an interagency working group, including these civil rights offices, to coordinate on algorithm-related civil rights issues. The bill authorizes appropriations as needed to implement these requirements. The bill was introduced on January 15, 2026, and referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. As of the latest action, it has not advanced beyond introduction, and would need committee consideration, floor votes in both chambers, and the President's signature to become law.
- Has S. 3680 become law?
- Not yet. As of 15 Jan 2026, S. 3680 is introduced.
- Who sponsored S. 3680?
- S. 3680 was sponsored by Sen. Edward “Ed” Markey [D-MA] (Democrat-MA), with 6 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on S. 3680?
- Introduced (15 Jan 2026).
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