“Biden’s Executive Order Addresses AI Risks and Regulation”
President Joe Biden takes steps to mitigate AI risks in consumer, worker, and national security domains with a new executive order. Developers of AI systems with potential national security, economic, public health, or safety risks are required to share safety test results with the U.S. government. The order also mandates the establishment of testing standards and addresses chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and cybersecurity concerns.
President Biden emphasizes the need to govern AI technology to prevent misuse and exploitation. The order aims to set parameters as AI technology rapidly advances, garnering mixed reactions from industry and trade groups. While some welcome it, concerns are raised about data sharing and enforcement mechanisms.
The order goes beyond voluntary commitments made by AI companies earlier in the year, such as watermarking AI-generated content for safety. It also involves the Commerce Department in developing content authentication and watermarking guidelines for AI-generated items.
The Group of Seven industrial countries is set to agree on a code of conduct for advanced AI system developers. President Biden calls on Congress to enact laws to safeguard AI progress and tackle emerging threats.
Concerns about AI include the potential for bias and civil rights violations. The executive order seeks guidance for landlords, federal benefits programs, and federal contractors to prevent AI algorithms from exacerbating discrimination.
Additionally, the order calls for the development of “best practices” to address AI-related harms like job displacement and requires a report on labor market impacts.
This executive order signifies a significant step in regulating AI as it gains popularity and capabilities in a relatively unregulated environment.
