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US Senator Proposes Bill for Public Ownership of AI Companies

WireByte Staff · June 18, 2026

US Senator Bernie Sanders has introduced legislation to give the public a 50% stake in the largest American AI companies, creating a $7 trillion sovereign wealth fund and estimated annual dividend of $1,000 per US citizen. The bill aims to redirect AI profits back to the public, amid concerns over job losses, privacy, and mental health.

Key points

  • US Senator Bernie Sanders has introduced legislation to give the public a 50% stake in the largest American AI companies.
  • The bill would create a $7 trillion sovereign wealth fund, with an estimated annual dividend of $1,000 per US citizen.
  • The legislation aims to redirect AI profits back to the public, amid concerns over job losses, privacy, and mental health.
  • The bill would be funded by a one-time 50% tax on the stock of these companies.
  • An independent commission would manage the sovereign wealth fund, blocking decisions that harm the American people.

US Senator Proposes Bill for Public Ownership of AI Companies

US Senator Bernie Sanders has introduced legislation to give the public a 50% stake in the largest American AI companies. The bill aims to redirect AI profits back to the public, amid concerns over job losses, privacy, and mental health.

Background

The bill would create a $7 trillion sovereign wealth fund, with an estimated annual dividend of $1,000 per US citizen. This would be achieved through a one-time 50% tax on the stock of these companies. An independent commission would manage the sovereign wealth fund, blocking decisions that harm the American people.

Reactions

The proposal has sparked debate, with some arguing that it would stifle innovation, while others see it as a necessary step to ensure that the benefits of AI are shared by all. The tech industry has yet to comment on the proposal.

Next Steps

The bill is now before the US Congress, where it will face scrutiny and debate. If passed, it would be a significant step towards regulating the AI industry and ensuring that its benefits are shared by all.

Sources

WireByte Staff — Editorial Team

The WireByte editorial team synthesises technology news from multiple primary sources, verifies the facts, and links every source. Articles are produced with AI assistance and reviewed under our editorial policy.