Introduction
On July 23, 2025 [2] [3] [6], the Trump Administration introduced a comprehensive AI Action Plan designed to maintain US leadership in artificial intelligence. The plan aims to eliminate regulatory barriers and foster innovation across the federal government, focusing on establishing AI standards and securing military, economic [6], and technological advantages [6].
Description
The AI Action Plan is structured around three main pillars: innovation [6], infrastructure [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6], and international diplomacy and security [2] [4] [6]. It outlines over 90 policy actions to achieve its objectives.
A significant focus of the plan is regulatory relief, particularly through the removal of bureaucratic obstacles that hinder AI development. The administration emphasizes the importance of accuracy, objectivity [1] [6], and ideological neutrality in AI systems, mandating that federal agencies procure only large language models (LLMs) that meet these criteria [6]. To discourage states from imposing their own regulations [4], the plan suggests directing funding for AI projects to states with favorable regulatory environments [4]. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is tasked with issuing implementation guidance within 120 days [6], followed by compliance procedures from agencies within 90 days [6]. The administration recognizes American workers as key stakeholders and has expressed concerns that excessive regulation could stifle innovation.
To facilitate infrastructure development [1] [2] [3], the plan proposes expedited permitting processes for AI data centers and semiconductor manufacturing, including specific measures to streamline environmental reviews and increase access to federal land for development. Executive Order 14318 specifically streamlines permitting for qualifying data centers [5], prioritizing development on sites deemed important for national security and upgrading the power grid to support domestic chip manufacturing. Additionally, the plan initiates a financial support program for qualifying projects [6], including various forms of financial assistance [6], and requires relevant agencies to identify existing categorical exclusions under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to expedite the reuse of contaminated sites [6].
Investment is highlighted as a critical component of the innovation strategy, with recommendations for enhancing job training and education in AI [2], supporting apprenticeships [2], and developing a comprehensive skills framework. The plan emphasizes the need for increased investment in computing power [2], accessibility [2], and infrastructure to address supply chain challenges and bolster domestic production [2]. It also calls for the establishment of automated [2], cloud-enabled labs for research and the creation of datasets [2], alongside efforts to attract talent for research and standardization initiatives [2]. Furthermore, it promotes open-source models and prioritizes investments in next-generation manufacturing and AI interpretability [3].
In the area of innovation, the plan seeks to incentivize private sector AI development through new funding opportunities and updated procurement guidelines that favor objective AI systems [1]. The importance of security in AI innovations is underscored [1], particularly in relation to the risks associated with automated decision-making tools and synthetic media in legal contexts. The plan signifies a shift towards reduced compliance burdens and less federal scrutiny over AI safety and ethics [3], contrasting with previous administrations’ emphasis on trustworthiness and consumer protections [3].
On the international front, the plan outlines initiatives to advance US interests abroad through the establishment of the American AI Exports Program, which aims to promote the global deployment of US-developed AI technologies [6]. This program will be developed in collaboration with the Department of State and the Office of Science and Technology Policy [6], prioritizing industry-led proposals for federal support [6]. The administration aims to coordinate trade efforts to promote the adoption of US AI technologies and standards globally [1], while also strengthening export controls against adversaries [3], particularly in countering Chinese influence in international AI standards and governance [3].
Additionally, the plan addresses biosecurity in scientific research funded by the federal government [1], implementing requirements for robust screening and verification procedures for recipients using nucleic acid synthesis tools. The General Services Administration is tasked with creating an “AI procurement toolbox” to standardize federal procurement processes for compliant AI models [5], ensuring that innovation aligns with government objectives while mitigating risks associated with ideological biases. The plan also emphasizes the importance of AI literacy and skills development to prepare American workers for an AI-driven economy [4], following previous executive orders promoting AI education through public-private partnerships [4]. Recommendations include clarifying that AI literacy programs may qualify for tax-free educational assistance and establishing an “AI Workforce Research Hub” to assess AI’s impact on the labor market and support retraining for those affected by job displacement [4]. Employers are encouraged to review their AI usage [4], consider the benefits [4], and invest in training programs while balancing innovation with risk management in the use of automated decision-making tools.
Conclusion
The AI Action Plan is poised to significantly impact the US AI landscape by fostering innovation, streamlining infrastructure development [1] [2] [3] [5], and enhancing international competitiveness [1]. By addressing regulatory barriers and promoting investment in AI education and infrastructure, the plan aims to secure the United States’ position as a global leader in artificial intelligence. The emphasis on international collaboration and biosecurity further underscores the comprehensive nature of the plan, ensuring that AI development aligns with national interests and global standards.
References
[1] https://perkinscoie.com/insights/update/how-white-houses-ai-action-plan-aims-ensure-american-leadership-ai
[2] https://www.quarles.com/newsroom/publications/white-house-releases-americas-ai-action-plan-and-accompanying-ai-executive-orders
[3] https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/white-house-issues-action-plan-three-5392071/
[4] https://natlawreview.com/article/new-white-house-ai-action-plan-aims-remove-barriers-and-shift-regulatory-focus
[5] https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/how-the-white-house-s-ai-action-plan-5714408/
[6] https://www.akingump.com/en/insights/alerts/white-house-issues-long-awaited-ai-action-plan-and-accompanying-executive-orders
