Smart Policies / AI
America’s broadband networks power AI innovation.
From generative AI tools to intelligent networks and connected devices, America’s broadband networks provide the infrastructure that is powering AI innovation. Built through decades of private investment, these networks currently deliver the high-capacity connectivity needed to support the many emerging AI technologies.
AI is also improving these communications networks. Broadband providers are using AI-driven tools to monitor performance, detect service disruptions, manage network traffic, and strengthen cybersecurity. As AI capabilities continue to evolve, they will play an even greater role in optimizing networks and improving service for consumers and businesses.
As AI technologies evolve, balancing innovation and risk will be increasingly important.
Maintaining U.S. leadership in AI will require balanced policies that encourage innovation while promoting trust, accountability, and collaboration. Avoiding overly restrictive or fragmented approaches is key, especially as rapid AI advances raise important questions around workforce readiness, intellectual property, and responsible deployment. With strong broadband infrastructure, a dynamic technology ecosystem, and continued investment in connectivity and research, the U.S. is well positioned to unlock AI’s full potential.
The U.S. is well positioned to lead the next generation of AI innovation.
NCTA’s Core AI framework outlines key priorities for supporting responsible AI innovation. This will help ensure that AI technologies drive economic growth, strengthen critical infrastructure, and deliver meaningful benefits for consumers and communities across the country.
AI depends on robust, widely available, and affordable connectivity infrastructure. Broadband is the backbone that enables data movement, model performance, and scale. As critical economic and national security infrastructure, broadband must be central to any national AI strategy. Our members have invested over $355 billion over the past 20 years to build and expand this foundation, helping ensure AI-driven services reach consumers at scale.
A patchwork of state AI laws risks undermining innovation, investment, and deployment. AI requires a consistent national framework, not conflicting rules from state to state. Policymakers should work with industry to build on existing voluntary standards and support a unified innovation ecosystem.
Sustained, strategic investment in AI R&D must be a core national priority and not tied to legislative cycles. Advancements in AI will enable more efficient spectrum use, improved network management, and stronger security. Our networks already carry 90% of mobile traffic over Wi-Fi, with further gains ahead.
Strong copyright protections support—not hinder—AI innovation by safeguarding investment and creativity. The existing fair use framework provides the right balance, and courts should continue applying it case by case rather than creating new AI-specific exemptions.
AI’s success depends on a skilled workforce. Policymakers should prioritize education, training, and reskilling programs to prepare workers for roles in areas like network operations, edge computing, and data infrastructure.
AI should be broadly deployed to solve current challenges and unlock new opportunities. A successful approach requires building trust, addressing emerging risks, and ensuring that the benefits of AI are accessible and shared across society.
AI and broadband are transforming how we work, connect, and innovate
Cory Gardner Lays Out NCTA’s Core AI Vision at State of the Net
1,880%
Increase in cable internet speeds over past 15 years
$26B+
Invested in broadband networks in 2026