“By helping small businesses learn how to apply AI, we can help them get ahead, stay competitive and continue supporting our economy.”
WASHINGTON – Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) joined Sens. Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Maria Cantwell’s (D-Wash.) AI for Mainstreet Act. This bill would provide training, guidance and support to American small businesses looking to implement artificial intelligence (AI) into their businesses.
“In order for America to achieve national security and economic dominance, we must lead in AI. That starts with giving Americans the tools to use this technology effectively. By helping small businesses learn how to apply AI, we can help them get ahead, stay competitive and continue supporting our economy,” said Husted.
“Our bill will provide training, guidance, and support to ensure more American small businesses are equipped with the tools needed to compete in today’s evolving digital economy,” said Young.
“As artificial intelligence becomes an essential workplace tool, small businesses should not be left behind. This legislation will help provide guidance and training to thousands of Washington small businesses on how they can use AI to help their businesses grow and thrive,” said Cantwell.
The Small Business Administration established Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) nationwide to provide support and training to American small businesses. The AI for Mainstreet Act would expand the support and training from SBDCs regarding AI, including how to utilize AI to streamline business functions and operations, better plan for unexpected circumstances, protect data and intellectual property and improve cybersecurity.
Reps. Mark Alford (R-Mo.) and Hillary Scholten (D-Mich.) introduced the companion bill of the AI for Mainstreet Act in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill passed the House on Jan. 20, 2026, with a vote of 395-14.
Husted’s support of the AI for Mainstreet Act builds on his work to help America’s small businesses get ahead. Husted is backing the Investing in All of America Act, a bill that would expand access to capital for small businesses in rural and low-income communities, as well as those in the manufacturing and critical technology sectors.
The full bill is available here.