In a landmark move, U.S. President Joe Biden has announced a comprehensive plan to address the risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI). This plan is designed to enhance safety, protect consumers, workers, and minority groups, and mitigate the potential risks posed by AI.
The executive order the president will introduce marks a significant step by the administration to establish parameters around AI. This technology has been making rapid strides in capability and popularity in an environment that has, so far, seen limited regulation.
Previously, AI companies such as OpenAI, along with Alphabet and Meta Platforms voluntarily agreed to watermark AI-generated content to enhance the technology’s safety. However, the new executive order goes beyond these commitments.
Safety Tests and Standards: A Closer Look
The executive order mandates that developers of AI systems that pose risks to U.S. national security, the economy, public health, or safety share the results of safety tests with the U.S. government before they are released to the public. This requirement aligns with the Defense Production Act.
Furthermore, it directs agencies to set standards for testing and address related chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and cybersecurity risks. This is a significant step towards ensuring that AI systems are not only effective but also safe for public use.
Content Authentication and Watermarking: Ensuring Transparency
To ensure clarity in government communications, the Commerce Department will develop guidance for content authentication and watermarking for items generated by AI. This move is aimed at ensuring transparency and authenticity in AI-generated content.
Addressing Discrimination: A Step Towards Fairness
The executive order also delves into privacy issues, housing discrimination, and job displacement. It seeks to prevent AI algorithms from exacerbating discrimination. This move is particularly significant given that AI can potentially heighten the risk of bias and civil rights violations.
A Bold Move Towards Responsible AI
Bruce Reed, the White House Deputy Chief of Staff, called it “the strongest set of actions any government in the world has ever taken on AI safety, security, and trust.”
“It’s the next step in an aggressive strategy to do everything on all fronts to harness the benefits of AI and mitigate the risks,” Reed said in a statement.
While the executive order has the force of law, the White House believes that legislative action from Congress is also necessary for AI governance. In particular, President Biden is calling on Congress to pass legislation on data privacy.
This comprehensive plan reflects seeks to address the challenges posed by rapidly evolving AI technologies. It highlights the importance of striking a balance between innovation and regulation in order to ensure that AI serves as a tool for progress while safeguarding public interests.
