The AI Opportunity Equity Act of 2025
A BILL
To declare access to artificial intelligence tools and education a civil right, ensure equitable distribution of AI resources across underserved and marginalized communities, and fund national programs to expand AI literacy, digital inclusion, and workforce readiness for all Americans.
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE
This Act may be cited as the “AI Opportunity Equity Act of 2025.”
SECTION 2. FINDINGS
Congress finds the following:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a transformative tool that can enhance education, employment, and entrepreneurship.
Unequal access to AI tools and digital infrastructure exacerbates social, economic, and geographic disparities.
Individuals in rural, low-income, tribal, disabled, and non-college-educated populations face systemic barriers to AI literacy and opportunity.
National prosperity and innovation depend on widespread AI readiness, inclusion, and civic participation.
Federal action is necessary to ensure that AI serves all Americans and upholds the values of equity and equal opportunity.
SECTION 3. DEFINITIONS
As used in this Act:
“AI Access Tools” means publicly funded intelligent platforms, software, and devices that enable productivity, communication, and learning.
“Digital Equity Zone” means a census tract or ZIP code designated by the Secretary of Commerce as underserved or at risk of digital exclusion.
“AI Navigator” means a federally supported professional trained to assist individuals in learning and responsibly using AI tools.
“Qualified Participant” includes individuals from federally recognized underserved groups, including but not limited to: low-income households, veterans, persons with disabilities, rural residents, and formerly incarcerated individuals.
SECTION 4. DECLARATION OF AI ACCESS AS A CIVIL RIGHT
(a) It shall be the policy of the United States that access to foundational AI tools, training, and digital opportunity is a protected civil right.
(b) No person may be denied access to baseline AI services funded or authorized by the federal government based on race, income, geography, age, disability, or educational background.
(c) Civil remedies and federal enforcement shall apply to violations of this section.
SECTION 5. AI ACCESS & EDUCATION GRANT PROGRAMS
(a) The Secretary of Education and Secretary of Labor shall jointly administer competitive and formula-based grants to:
Expand K-12 and post-secondary AI literacy curricula
Establish community-based AI Learning Hubs in libraries, colleges, and community centers
Fund public-private partnerships to develop culturally inclusive AI tools
Provide portable digital learning credits for qualified participants
(b) No less than 40% of all grant funds shall be directed to Digital Equity Zones.
SECTION 6. AI NAVIGATOR CORPS EXPANSION
(a) The Department of Labor shall expand and support the AI Navigator Corps.
(b) Navigators shall be stationed in:
Public schools and community colleges
Tribal and rural access centers
Correctional reentry programs
Workforce development agencies
(c) Navigators shall provide hands-on training, resource guidance, and digital onboarding for qualified participants.
SECTION 7. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS
(a) There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this Act $15 billion over five years.
(b) Funds shall remain available until expended.
SECTION 8. ENFORCEMENT
(a) The Department of Justice shall establish an Office for AI Civil Rights to investigate violations.
(b) Individuals may bring actions in federal court under existing civil rights statutes.
(c) Agencies found in violation of this Act shall be subject to compliance orders, funding suspension, and public reporting.
SECTION 9. SEVERABILITY
If any provision of this Act, or the application thereof, is held invalid, the remainder shall not be affected.
