On May 22, the US House of Representatives passed a budget reconciliation package that outlines government operations for the 2026 fiscal year. The bill, which has now moved to the Senate, includes significant provisions that have raised concerns among disability rights and justice advocates. One of the most contentious aspects is the proposed $600 billion cut to Medicaid, which could result in over 10 million people losing their health coverage.
Additionally, a provision within the bill suggests a ten-year moratorium on state or local AI regulation enforcement. If enacted, this would restrict states and local governments from implementing laws or regulations concerning artificial intelligence models and systems, with few exceptions.
The intention behind this measure is to prevent states from regulating emerging technologies that offer benefits but also pose risks to constituents, particularly those with disabilities. The use of AI tools in critical areas such as employment, education, and healthcare can lead to what has been termed "tech-facilitated disability discrimination." This term refers to various ways in which AI and emerging technologies may cause discrimination against individuals based on their disabilities.
While existing statutes like the Americans with Disabilities Act provide some legal recourse for such discrimination, state-level AI regulation is seen as crucial for mitigating harm.
The op-ed authored by Ariana Aboulafia and Travis Hall was first published in Tech Policy Press on June 19, 2025.