President Biden Signs First Executive Order on AI in the US
President Joe Biden has signed an executive order focused on artificial intelligence (AI) in the US. The order mandates new safety assessments, equity and civil rights guidance, and research on AI’s impact on the labor market. It aims to ensure the safety, security, and trust of AI technologies.
Biden AI Executive Order Addresses Key Components
The executive order is divided into eight components that address various aspects of AI use and development. These include creating new safety and security standards, protecting consumer privacy, advancing equity and civil rights, supporting workers, promoting innovation and competition, working with international partners, and developing guidance for federal agencies’ use of AI.
The order requires AI companies to share safety test results with the federal government and provides guidelines to prevent discrimination caused by AI algorithms. It also directs an evaluation of potentially harmful AI-related healthcare practices.
In terms of supporting workers, the order calls for a report on the labor market implications of AI and outlines ways the federal government can assist workers affected by AI-induced disruption.
US Government Takes Strongest Actions on AI Safety
The executive order is hailed as the “strongest set of actions any government in the world has ever taken on AI safety, security, and trust” by White House Deputy Chief of Staff Bruce Reed. It builds upon voluntary commitments from leading AI companies and represents a major binding government action on AI technology.
International Efforts for AI Regulation
The G7 nations are working on a voluntary ‘Code of Conduct’ for advanced AI systems known as the “Hiroshima AI process.” This initiative aims to promote safe, secure, and trustworthy AI globally. It encourages companies to identify and mitigate risks throughout the AI lifecycle while emphasizing robust security controls.
The ‘Code of Conduct’ addresses privacy concerns and security risks by encouraging companies to publish public reports on AI capabilities, limitations, and usage. It serves as a bridge until formal regulations are established.
Hot Take: Proactive Measures for Responsible AI
The US government’s executive order and international efforts by the G7 nations demonstrate proactive measures to harness the power of AI responsibly. These actions aim to maximize the benefits of AI while effectively managing potential risks. As AI continues to evolve, these initiatives play a crucial role in ensuring safe and trustworthy AI technologies.