Artificial Intelligence and Critical Technology Workforce Framework Act of 2025
INTRO APR 3· LAST ACTION APR 3
READING
8MIN
COSPONSORS
1
READER REACTIONS0 TOTAL
NO VOTES YET · BE THE FIRST
Introduced only
LEGISLATIVE PROGRESS
STEP 2 / 8
Introduced
In Committee
Reported
Passed Senate
Passed House
Conference
To President
Became Law
WHAT THE BILL DOES
AI-written
This bill matters because new technologies like artificial intelligence are rapidly changing the job market, and there's often confusion about what skills are truly needed. By having a clear, government-backed framework, people can better prepare for these jobs, and schools can create more relevant programs.
If this bill becomes law, it could help address skills gaps in critical technology sectors, making the workforce more competitive and secure. Without it, the development of these job frameworks might be slower, less coordinated, or inconsistent, potentially hindering workforce development and national security in fast-evolving tech areas.
KEY PROVISIONS
4AI-extracted
PROVISION 01
Expands NIST's role to develop workforce frameworks for all 'critical and emerging technologies,' not just cybersecurity.
This broadens the scope of NIST's work to encompass rapidly developing fields like AI, ensuring a standardized approach to defining job skills across the tech sector.
PROVISION 02
Requires NIST to periodically review and update all workforce frameworks at least once every three years, including the existing cybersecurity framework.
This ensures that job skill definitions remain current and relevant in fast-changing technology fields, preventing outdated guidance.
PROVISION 03
Directs NIST to consider including professional skills, support roles (like legal, HR, or ethics), diverse career pathways, and credentialing information within the frameworks.
This promotes a more holistic understanding of tech careers, making them accessible to a wider range of individuals, including those with non-technical backgrounds, and highlighting the importance of 'soft' skills.
PROVISION 04
Mandates NIST to submit reports to Congress on its process for updating frameworks and how the cybersecurity framework is being applied and used.
This ensures transparency and accountability for NIST's efforts, allowing Congress and the public to track the progress and effectiveness of these workforce development initiatives.
This bill matters because new technologies like artificial intelligence are rapidly changing the job market, and there's often confusion about what skills are truly needed. By having a clear, government-backed framework, people can better prepare for these jobs, and schools can create more relevant programs.
If this bill becomes law, it could help address skills gaps in critical technology sectors, making the workforce more competitive and secure. Without it, the development of these job frameworks might be slower, less coordinated, or inconsistent, potentially hindering workforce development and national security in fast-evolving tech areas.
KEY PROVISIONS
AI-extracted
high
Expands NIST's role to develop workforce frameworks for all 'critical and emerging technologies,' not just cybersecurity.
This broadens the scope of NIST's work to encompass rapidly developing fields like AI, ensuring a standardized approach to defining job skills across the tech sector.
high
Requires NIST to periodically review and update all workforce frameworks at least once every three years, including the existing cybersecurity framework.
This ensures that job skill definitions remain current and relevant in fast-changing technology fields, preventing outdated guidance.
med
Directs NIST to consider including professional skills, support roles (like legal, HR, or ethics), diverse career pathways, and credentialing information within the frameworks.
This promotes a more holistic understanding of tech careers, making them accessible to a wider range of individuals, including those with non-technical backgrounds, and highlighting the importance of 'soft' skills.
med
Mandates NIST to submit reports to Congress on its process for updating frameworks and how the cybersecurity framework is being applied and used.
This ensures transparency and accountability for NIST's efforts, allowing Congress and the public to track the progress and effectiveness of these workforce development initiatives.
Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act
First report to Congress on the process for reviewing and updating the NICE Workforce Framework for Cybersecurity.
After each determination under subparagraph (B) (at least once every 3 years)
Subsequent reports to Congress on any determination to update frameworks and plans for review.
Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act
First report to Congress on the application and use of the NICE Workforce Framework for Cybersecurity.
Not less frequently than once every 3 years thereafter for 9 years
Subsequent reports to Congress on the application and use of the NICE Workforce Framework for Cybersecurity.
GLOSSARY
AI-written
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
A U.S. government agency that promotes innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology.
Workforce Framework
A common structure or guide that defines the tasks, knowledge, and skills needed for various jobs or areas of work within a specific field.
Critical and Emerging Technologies
New and important technologies, such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, or advanced biotechnology, that are considered vital for national security and economic growth.
Competencies
The specific knowledge and skills that a person needs to perform a job effectively.
NICE Workforce Framework for Cybersecurity
An existing framework developed by NIST that categorizes and describes the tasks, knowledge, and skills required for cybersecurity jobs.
Work Roles
Specific job positions or functions within an organization, defined by the set of tasks and responsibilities associated with them.
ACTION TIMELINE
2 EVENTS
APR 3, 25
Introduced in Senate
INTROREFERRAL
APR 3, 25
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.