Democrats float ‘robot tax’ as Senate report warns AI could displace up to 100 million U.S. jobs

A Democratic-led report from the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee warns that artificial intelligence could displace up to 100 million U.S. jobs in the next decade, with fast-food and counter workers among the most exposed. The staff analysis, championed by Sen. Bernie Sanders, suggests a “robot tax” on companies that replace human workers with automation to recoup lost payroll taxes and fund retraining. The package also outlines a broader labor agenda, including a 32-hour workweek, a $17 federal minimum wage, stronger overtime rules and worker equity stakes in automated industries. Supporters say the levy would align corporate gains with social costs, echoing arguments from figures like Bill Gates; critics warn new taxes could slow innovation and productivity. The report emphasizes that AI’s impact will hinge on policy choices made now.

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