While legislators discuss regulations on artificial intelligence (AI), the US Catholic Bishops Conference (USCB) urges them to prioritize “the life and dignity of the human person and the common good.”
“Artificial intelligence is quickly molding the future of our society,” said Mons. William D. Byrne, president of the USCCB Communications Committee.
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“As pastors in charge of the care of human life and their dignity, we urge legislators to attend the call of our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, to ensure that AI develops with responsibility and discernment, so that all people truly benefit,” he added.
Although Congress is not discussing comprehensive legislation on AI, the law approved by the House of Representatives called One Big Beautiful Bill Act It could have a great impact on the future of this technology. A project willingness would prohibit the AI regulates for 10 years, which would essentially federalize the issue.
Currently, the project is in the Senate, where modifications are expected. If the Senate version is approved, it will return to the camera for its final vote.
In a letter sent to Congress leaders, bishops admit that they are not technical experts, but claim to speak as shepherds. They offer ethical principles and public policy considerations for legislators to reflect.
“Have the security of our prayers and willingness to help them in this important and timely work,” they wrote.
Ethical principles
One of the central principles indicated by bishops is “the inherent dignity of each human person”, which must always be “in the center of technological development.”
“AI is a tool that, when guided by solid moral principles, can help overcome many obstacles to life and improve the human condition,” they wrote. “But this technology must complement what human beings do, not replace them or replace their moral judgment. We must also avoid the temptations of transhumanism or to equate AI with human life.”
They also expressed concern about people in poverty, noting that “AI will only serve everyone when it helps our poorest and poorest and vulnerable sisters, and when they can participate equally in their development and use.”
Another outstanding ethical principle was the “respect for truth.” They warned that AI is being used to undermine human dignity and truth through misinformation, false news and deepfakes.
“IA systems must have human supervision and clear accountability to promote transparency and just democratic processes,” they stressed.
Considerations in public policies
As for public policies, the bishops indicated that AI can benefit society if used ethically, but can also be harmful without adequate safeguards.
On the family, they indicated that the AI ”can improve the efficiency of daily tasks and facilitate communication”, but that can also generate isolation. Therefore, it should “strengthen and support family life” and not promote morally offensive uses of reproductive technologies or genetic manipulations.
In the economic field, they reiterated common concerns about “the loss of jobs, inequality and exploitation.” They recommended policies that protect workers, promote education and training, require public accountability in the government use of AI and guarantee human supervision in automated work decisions.
They also called to protect the data and intellectual property rights to promote the artistic and creative spirit.
Although they valued the positive potential of AI in areas such as food, health, education and communication, they warned that an unregulated use can “further polarize society and aggravate inequalities.” In particular, they mentioned the problematic use of AI in the selection of employment, medical care, public benefits and immigration.
“(AI) can reinforce existing prejudices or introduce a utilitarian approach without necessary human considerations, with potentially devastating consequences,” they warned.
On the environment, they recognized that AI can help find solutions to energy and environmental crises, but also alerted excessive consumption of energy, resources and the generation of hazardous electronic waste such as mercury and lead.
Finally, they expressed great concern about the development of lethal autonomous weapons, insisting that every policy must guarantee the human control of any weapons system, to mitigate the horrors of war and protect fundamental human rights.
The bishops concluded that these principles and orientations are not exhaustive, but an “modest initial reflection” so that Congress takes them into account when preparing federal policies and regulations on artificial intelligence.
Translated and adapted by ACI Press. Originally published in CNA.
Tyler Arnold
Tyler Arnold is a reporter of the National Catholic Register. He previously worked at The Center Square and has published in various media, including The Associated Press, National Review, The American Conservative and The Federalist.