# Arizona Leaders Back AI Workforce Bill

On September 29, 2026, Senator Mark Kelly announced support from Arizona and tribal leaders for the proposed Make AI Work for Americans Act. The bill would establish a federal trust fund for worker training, apprenticeships, education, and support for communities and small businesses adapting to AI. It is proposed legislation, not a solicitation or contract; the signal specifies no funding amount or implementation timeline.

- Workforce providers, educational institutions, and firms supporting small businesses may find the bill’s proposed focus areas relevant to their capabilities, including training, apprenticeships, community-college partnerships, rural broadband, and AI assistance.
- The proposal does not create a current procurement opportunity or establish an award process. Organizations should distinguish potential future demand from funded programs or active solicitations.
- Tribal leaders’ support highlights the importance of including tribal governments and workforces in AI-related program planning if the legislation advances.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Education, Information Technology
**Topics:** Artificial Intelligence, Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 30, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Congress
- Arizona Attorney General's Office
- Gila River Indian Community
- Pascua Yaqui Tribe
- Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community

### Key Quotes
> It is critical that as Congress develops AI policies and laws that tribal governments are included and can ensure our communities and our workforce are both protected and can advance as AI evolves.
> — Stephen Roe Lewis, Governor, Gila River Indian Community

> Investing in entrepreneurship is a brilliant strategy for creating long-term economic resilience across the country.
> — Kimber Lanning, CEO, Local First Arizona

### Sources
- [Support Rolls in from Arizona, Tribal Leaders for Kelly’s Make AI Work for Americans Act  - Senator Mark Kelly](https://www.kelly.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/support-rolls-in-from-arizona-tribal-leaders-for-kellys-make-ai-work-for-americans-act/) - Kelly Senate