K–12 AI Literacy and Readiness Act of 2026

This bill, titled the K-12 AI Literacy and Readiness Act of 2026, seeks to update the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA). Its primary purpose is to expand the permissible uses of federal education funds to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) related activities within schools. This expansion aims to prepare both students and educators for the increasing prevalence of AI. Specifically, the legislation amends various sections of the ESEA to allow states and local educational agencies to use funds for student instruction on the safe, effective, and responsible use of AI. Furthermore, it permits the use of funds for professional development to provide teachers, paraprofessionals, school librarians, media personnel, and administrators with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively use and teach AI. The bill defines artificial intelligence by referencing the National Artificial Intelligence Initiative Act of 2020.