Another National Emergency: The Unchecked Rise of AI and Its Threat to the American Workforce
As Wildfires Rage Across Los Angeles, Another Crisis Looms
Our hearts go out to those affected by the devastating fires currently raging across Los Angeles County. This natural disaster has upended lives, destroyed homes, and left thousands grappling with unimaginable loss. The immediate response to such crises is paramount, and the bravery of first responders and community efforts to assist those impacted cannot be overstated.
While we focus on addressing this urgent natural disaster, it is important to recognize that another crisis—less visible but no less destructive—threatens to engulf the nation. This is not a fire of flames but of unchecked artificial intelligence and automation rapidly displacing the American workforce. If left unregulated, this man-made disaster could spark widespread job loss, economic instability, and potentially social unrest on an unprecedented scale.
My Call to the White House: An Urgent Follow-Up
On January 8, 2025, my letter urging immediate action on AI regulation was delivered to the White House at 10:29 AM. The following day, I followed up with a phone call to confirm its receipt. While I was informed that processing letters typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, the current administration does not have that luxury.
In an effort to escalate my concerns, I was advised to contact the Secretary of the Department of Labor’s designated liaison for workforce-related issues. However, I was only able to leave a voicemail. With the clock ticking and no confirmation of action, this delay underscores the urgency for immediate and decisive leadership.
Why This Crisis Is a National Emergency
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that up to 60% of jobs in developed nations could be impacted by AI and automation. In the U.S., this could mean tens of millions of displaced workers struggling to find new opportunities in an economy that has yet to adapt to the pace of technological change.
The consequences are clear:
• Massive Job Displacement: Entire industries could be hollowed out, leaving workers without income or stability.
• Economic Collapse: A sharp rise in unemployment would shrink consumer spending, destabilize markets, and erode the tax base.
• Housing and Food Insecurity: Without jobs, displaced workers risk losing their homes and struggling to afford basic necessities.
• Social Unrest: As despair grows, the nation could face protests, riots, and widespread discontent.
The fires in Los Angeles remind us of the devastating impact of natural disasters. But what happens when the disaster is man-made, and the damage spreads invisibly across the nation? While natural disasters demand immediate attention, this man-made emergency is no less urgent. Without safeguards to regulate AI and automation, the fallout could rival or exceed the economic damage caused by the Great Depression.
Drawing a Connection Between Crises
The current tragedy in Los Angeles serves as a stark reminder of how unprepared we can be in the face of large-scale crises. Just as we cannot ignore the need for preventive measures to mitigate natural disasters, we must act now to address the looming catastrophe of unregulated AI. This “invisible fire” threatens to disrupt communities and destabilize lives on a national scale.
This is not about comparing crises but about learning from them. As we respond to the immediate needs of those affected by the fires, let us also take steps to prevent future catastrophes—whether natural or man-made. Both require proactive leadership and a commitment to protecting American lives and livelihoods.
Time is Running Out
The Biden-Harris administration has less than a week to act before the transition of power on January 20, 2025. This fleeting window represents the last chance for meaningful action to establish protections for the workforce before a new administration—potentially less focused on regulation—takes over.
While it’s encouraging that my letter has been received, the timeline for action is far too slow. We cannot afford to wait 2 to 4 weeks for processing while the livelihoods of millions hang in the balance—especially with the next administration likely to focus on deregulation and dismantle existing legislation. This wouldn’t just set us back in the fight against climate change but also jeopardize efforts to protect the American workforce in an AI-driven economic landscape. The fire is already burning, and the time to act is now.
What Needs to Happen Now
1. Immediate Acknowledgment: The White House must fast-track workforce-related concerns as a top priority.
2. Coordination with the Department of Labor: Mrs. Jackson, as the liaison, must urgently review and address these recommendations.
3. Legislative Safeguards: Implement immediate caps on workforce replacement by AI, introduce tax incentives for retaining human workers, and fund reskilling programs.
4. Bipartisan Action: Congress must rise above partisan divides to address this crisis with the urgency it demands.
A Call to Leadership
Our hearts go out to those affected by the fires in LA. This is a reminder that we must act now to prevent future catastrophes—natural or man-made.
AI is not the enemy—it is a tool. However, tools must be used responsibly. Without safeguards, the rapid rise of AI and automation will create a cascade of economic and social instability, one that no water will be able to cool.
Let us learn from the resilience and unity shown in the face of natural disasters like the LA fires. By addressing both immediate and long-term crises with the same level of commitment, we can ensure a future where American communities and workers are safeguarded from harm.
It is time for our leaders to act. The future of the American workforce—and the stability of our nation—depends on it.
