The United States government has embarked on a mission to establish comprehensive rules for the development of artificial intelligence (AI). The urgency is palpable, with the Biden administration taking strides to navigate the evolving landscape of AI technologies. This article dissects the recent Executive Orders, highlighting their implications and the nation’s response to the global AI challenge.
US Seeks Accountability in AI
In a groundbreaking move, the US Commerce Department has opened avenues for public discourse on creating accountability measures for AI. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is spearheading efforts to seek input from diverse stakeholders, emphasizing the need for audits and assessments to ensure the trustworthiness of AI systems. The urgency to establish guardrails is underscored by Alan Davidson, head of the NTIA, who acknowledges the swift evolution of AI technologies.
Biden’s AI Guidelines and Industry Outlook
The Biden administration has previously introduced voluntary guidelines, akin to a “bill of rights,” outlining principles for responsible AI development. These include considerations for data privacy, protection against algorithmic discrimination, and transparency in automated system usage.
Simultaneously, federal agencies are scrutinizing existing regulations to discern their applicability to AI, while lawmakers have introduced over 100 AI-related bills in 2021. However, the historical lag in the federal response to rapidly advancing technologies is acknowledged, especially in comparison to European counterparts.
Also Read: OpenAI Prepares for Ethical and Responsible AI
Executive Order Ensures AI Safety and Security
President Biden’s Executive Order is a landmark development in the realm of AI governance. The order establishes new standards for AI safety and security, addressing concerns related to national security, public health, and economic well-being. Key directives include mandatory sharing of safety test results, the development of standards and tests for AI systems, and the creation of the AI Safety and Security Board. These measures represent a significant leap towards ensuring the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies.
Also Read: OpenAI Plans Bengaluru Developer Meet to Tackle AI Safety Concerns
Protecting Privacy and Ensuring Equity
AI’s potential risks extend to privacy infringement and discriminatory practices. The Executive Order calls for the prioritization of federal support for privacy-preserving techniques and funding research initiatives to advance privacy-preserving technologies. Additionally, clear guidance is provided to prevent AI algorithms from exacerbating discrimination in areas such as housing & federal benefits programs. The order further emphasizes fairness in the criminal justice system, advocating for best practices in AI use across various aspects, from sentencing to predictive policing.
Our Say
In navigating the AI frontier, the US government is taking commendable steps to strike a balance between fostering innovation and addressing potential harms. The Executive Orders signal a commitment to responsible AI development, with a focus on safety, security, privacy, and equity. The collaborative approach, seeking public input and engaging with international partners, reflects a recognition of the global impact of AI. As the nation charts its course in this territory, these rules lay the foundation for a robust & ethical AI ecosystem.
Sabreena Basheer is an architect-turned-writer who's passionate about documenting anything that interests her. She's currently exploring the world of AI and Data Science as a Content Manager at Analytics Vidhya.
