Office Hours with Senator Richard Burr

In this session, we examined the evolving US policy landscape for AI, data centers and robotics. Companies should anticipate targeted oversight and infrastructure scrutiny ahead of comprehensive federal legislation.

Key Takeaways

• Verification may precede regulation: Third-party testing could become an early standard for demonstrating responsible AI development.
• AI oversight is here to stay: Bipartisan interest signals sustained scrutiny beyond election cycles.
• Infrastructure creates business risk: Energy, water and community concerns may affect data center investment and development.
• Robotics expands regulatory exposure: Physical AI introduces new trade, national security and supply-chain considerations.
• Early engagement matters: Companies can help shape emerging rules for model transparency, evaluation and high-risk uses.

To learn more about how DLA Piper helps clients navigate these developments, contact our Artificial Intelligence, Regulatory and Government Affairs, and Global Trade teams.

To gain access to the recording of this conversation, reach out to Che Webb.

In this discussion, we outlined how regulatory fragmentation and geopolitical competition across the U.S., EU, and China are reshaping market access, supply chains, and compliance exposure for multinationals.

Key takeaways

• Fragmented authority complicates market strategy - EU decision‑making split between Brussels and member states creates inconsistent regulatory environments requiring tailored approaches.
• Trade policy now serves industrial goals - Tariffs and procurement tools are increasingly used to drive domestic competitiveness and reshape global competition.
• U.S. policies alter global pricing dynamics - Drug pricing interventions are influencing launch timing and market participation decisions in Europe.
• Digital regulation expands into security controls - EU connectivity rules now integrate cybersecurity and supply chain requirements, elevating compliance risk for infrastructure deployment.
• Localization pressures redefine supply chains - Policy momentum favors regional production and resilience over global efficiency across key sectors.

To gain access to the recording of this conversation, reach out to Che Webb.

The discussion focused on the policy and regulatory developments most relevant to clients, including U.S.-China dynamics, FDA leadership changes, and the evolving cybersecurity landscape. A central theme was how organizations can use CISA guidance and practical cyber planning to strengthen resilience in a more uncertain operating environment.

Key takeaways

• CISA remains a key resource for organizations looking to strengthen cyber preparedness.
• Geopolitical volatility is increasing cyber risk and raising the stakes for business continuity planning.
• Leadership uncertainty at FDA and HHS may delay decisions that matter to regulated businesses.
• Now is the time to review recovery plans, backups, and critical third-party dependencies.
• Regular cyber training and employee awareness remain essential first-line defenses.

To gain access to the recording of this conversation, reach out to Che Webb.

FDA in Focus: 2025 review and 2026 outlook

In 2025, FDA concentrated on rebuilding and modernizing its internal infrastructure amid unprecedented organizational and leadership changes. Against the backdrop of a significant reduction in force, shifting regulatory philosophies, and evolving policy priorities, the Agency focused on strengthening food safety, advancing medical product innovation, and enhancing oversight across its programs.