Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee
Introduced
In Committee
On Floor
Passed Chamber
Enacted
This bill mandates that federal agencies which use, fund, or oversee algorithms establish an office of civil rights within their structure. These offices are specifically tasked with addressing bias, discrimination, and other harms caused by algorithms, especially those impacting individuals based on protected characteristics. A "covered agency" is defined as one that uses, funds, or regulates "covered algorithms," which are complex computational processes with the potential to materially affect agency programs, economic opportunities, or protected rights. Each newly established civil rights office must submit biennial reports to Congress, detailing the state of algorithmic technology, steps taken to mitigate harms, and engagement with stakeholders. These reports will also include recommendations for legislative or administrative actions to combat algorithmic bias. Furthermore, the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights will establish an interagency working group on algorithms and civil rights, comprising members from each agency's office, to foster coordination and shared expertise. The bill authorizes necessary appropriations for agencies to implement these requirements.
Eliminating Bias in Algorithmic Systems Act of 2026
USA119th CongressS-3680| Senate
| Updated: 1/15/2026
This bill mandates that federal agencies which use, fund, or oversee algorithms establish an office of civil rights within their structure. These offices are specifically tasked with addressing bias, discrimination, and other harms caused by algorithms, especially those impacting individuals based on protected characteristics. A "covered agency" is defined as one that uses, funds, or regulates "covered algorithms," which are complex computational processes with the potential to materially affect agency programs, economic opportunities, or protected rights. Each newly established civil rights office must submit biennial reports to Congress, detailing the state of algorithmic technology, steps taken to mitigate harms, and engagement with stakeholders. These reports will also include recommendations for legislative or administrative actions to combat algorithmic bias. Furthermore, the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights will establish an interagency working group on algorithms and civil rights, comprising members from each agency's office, to foster coordination and shared expertise. The bill authorizes necessary appropriations for agencies to implement these requirements.