In a significant move towards regulating artificial intelligence (AI), President Joe Biden has signed an executive order aimed at providing rules around generative AI. The order outlines eight goals, including the creation of new standards for AI safety and security, protection of privacy, and promotion of innovation and competition. This executive order marks an important step forward in addressing the ethical and societal implications of AI technology.
Establishing Standards for AI Safety and Security
Under the executive order, several government agencies are tasked with creating standards to protect against the misuse of AI. The National Institute of Standards and Safety (NIST) will be responsible for developing standards to evaluate AI models before their public release. Additionally, the Department of Energy and Department of Homeland Security will address potential threats to infrastructure and cybersecurity risks posed by AI. Developers of large AI models, such as OpenAI's GPT and Meta's Llama 2, are required to share safety test results.
Protecting Privacy and Preventing Discrimination
To safeguard users' privacy, the executive order calls on Congress to pass data privacy regulations. It also seeks federal support for the development of "privacy-preserving" techniques and technologies. Furthermore, the order addresses algorithmic discrimination and aims to ensure fairness when utilizing AI technology for sentencing, parole, and surveillance. Government agencies are directed to provide guidelines to prevent AI from exacerbating discrimination in areas such as housing and federal benefits programs.
Addressing Job Displacement and Promoting AI Workforce
Recognizing the potential impact of AI on the labor market, the executive order directs agencies to address job displacement and produce a report on its effects. The White House also seeks to encourage more workers to enter the AI ecosystem and plans to launch a National AI Research Resource to provide key information to students and researchers. The order emphasizes the rapid hiring of AI professionals within the government.
Building Partnerships and Legislation
The Biden administration has previously released an AI Bill of Rights, outlining principles for developers of AI models to follow. These principles have been translated into agreements with major AI players, including Meta, Google, OpenAI, Nvidia, and Adobe. While the executive order represents a significant step towards regulation, lawmakers are still actively discussing legislation around AI. Some politicians aim to pass laws before the end of the year.
Conclusion
President Biden's executive order on generative AI is a major milestone in regulating and establishing safety guidelines for AI technology. By addressing standards, privacy concerns, algorithmic discrimination, job displacement, and workforce development, the order reflects the government's commitment to responsible and ethical AI use. While further legislative efforts are needed, this executive order signifies the United States' seriousness in prioritizing AI as a top government agenda.
