Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Fine (R-FL) introduced the K–12 AI Literacy and Readiness Act of 2026 to modernize American education by updating the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 and giving states and school districts clear authority to prepare students and teachers for the AI-driven economy using existing federal resources.
“Artificial intelligence is reshaping our economy and our kids’ futures faster than anything since the internet, yet too many schools still don’t have the authority or the resources to keep up. That’s why I’m introducing the K–12 AI Literacy and Readiness Act — to let states and districts use existing federal dollars for AI instruction, train our teachers, and make sure every student learns to use this technology safely and responsibly. Florida has shown we can modernize education without new spending or Washington interference — this bill takes that common-sense approach nationwide so our kids are ready to compete and win,” said Congressman Fine.
“With AI literacy quickly becoming a core workforce skill, students should have the opportunity to learn how to use these tools with confidence so the United States can fully capture the benefits of AI. CCIA commends Representative Fine for advancing the K–12 AI Literacy and Readiness Act, which would help schools use existing federal education funds for AI instruction, teacher training, and responsible classroom adoption,” said Michael Marn, Senior Manager for Computer and Communications Association.
The legislation amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act to explicitly allow federal funds for:
– Student instruction on the safe, effective, and responsible use of artificial intelligence (as defined in the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative Act of 2020).
– Professional development for teachers, paraprofessionals, school librarians, media personnel, specialized instructional support staff, and administrators to use and teach AI effectively.
The bill has no fiscal impact and creates no new spending programs. It simply clarifies that existing education dollars can be used for AI curricula and training in a responsible way.
This legislation will empower the next generation of American students to lead in an AI-powered world. By bringing Florida’s forward-thinking approach to classrooms nationwide, the K–12 AI Literacy and Readiness Act ensures our children will not only be prepared for the future — they will shape it, compete successfully on the global stage, and thrive in the exciting opportunities ahead.
You can read the full text of this legislation here.
