VA AI Transparency Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Barrett, Tom [R-MI-7]
- Committees
- Veterans' Affairs Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 29, 2026
Bottom line
The bill requires the VA to inform individuals when they are directly interacting with an artificial intelligence system, enhancing transparency in VA services.
What it actually does
This bill mandates that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disclose to individuals when it uses artificial intelligence (AI) to interact with them. The disclosure must clearly state that the interaction is with an AI system, not a human, and identify the general purpose of the AI. This requirement applies to veterans, their families, caregivers, and anyone seeking or receiving VA benefits or services, but explicitly excludes internal AI uses that do not directly interact with these individuals.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill enhances transparency and trust between veterans and the VA by ensuring individuals are aware when they are interacting with AI, allowing them to make informed decisions about their engagement. It protects against potential confusion or misrepresentation, especially concerning sensitive veteran services and benefits.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that such a mandate could create unnecessary administrative burdens for the VA, potentially slowing down the adoption of beneficial AI technologies or increasing operational costs. They might also contend that overly broad disclosure requirements could lead to 'disclosure fatigue' for users, diminishing the impact of the notices.
The bill is very short and straightforward, making it highly accessible for any reader to understand its provisions quickly.
Section 2(a) and (b)
Mandatory Disclosure of AI Interactions
This provision requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to inform individuals when they are interacting with an artificial intelligence system. This disclosure must include a clear statement that it's an AI, not a human, and explain the general purpose of the AI system. This applies to interactions with veterans, their families, caregivers, and anyone seeking or receiving VA benefits or services.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision empowers veterans and their families by providing crucial information about who or what they are interacting with, fostering trust and preventing potential misunderstandings or ethical concerns associated with undisclosed AI use in sensitive contexts like healthcare and benefits.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that mandating disclosure for every AI interaction could lead to 'disclosure fatigue' for users, making them less likely to pay attention to important notices. They might also argue it could add unnecessary complexity and cost to VA's technology implementation, potentially slowing down the deployment of helpful AI tools.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire for transparency and user awareness with potential administrative overhead and the risk of over-disclosure, aiming to protect individuals while allowing the VA to leverage AI for efficiency.
Section 2(c) and (d)
Exception for Internal AI Use and Rule of Construction
This part of the bill clarifies that the disclosure requirement does not apply to AI systems used internally by the VA to assist its employees, contractors, or other authorized personnel with administrative or analytical tasks, as long as these systems do not directly interact with covered individuals. It also explicitly states that this exception cannot be interpreted to allow the VA to use AI to interact directly with a covered individual without disclosure.