President Joe Biden is taking a new step Monday to address concerns about artificial intelligence (AI), seeking to improve safety while protecting consumers, workers and minorities from the risks posed by AI-based technologies.
The executive order requires developers of artificial intelligence systems that pose a threat to U.S. national security, the economy, public health, or safety to provide the government with security test results under the Defense Production Act before they are made public.
Additionally, the order directs agencies to establish standards for conducting such tests and addressing the chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and cybersecurity risks associated with them, the White House said in a statement.
The decree marks a new step by the administration to set the parameters of AI, which is rapidly gaining potential and popularity in an environment where regulation is still limited.
IBM said in a statement that the order “sends a critical message: AI used by the US government will be responsible AI.”
NetChoice, a national trade association that includes the largest technology platforms, said the measures would “inhibit the entry of new companies and competitors and significantly expand the federal government’s control over American innovation.”
Under the order, the Commerce Department will “develop content authentication and watermark guidance” for labeling products created by artificial intelligence, the White House said.
Biden is also asking Congress to pass data privacy legislation, the White House said.
Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman and Senate Cybersecurity Committee Co-Chairman Mark Warner welcomed the new order and said Monday that he was impressed by the “breadth of its coverage.” However, he called for additional legislative measures to “ensure safety is a priority, combat harmful bias and abuse, and deploy technology responsibly.”
White House Deputy Chief of Staff Bruce Reed called the executive order, which addresses privacy, housing discrimination and job losses, among other things, the “strongest package” of any administration. taken to ensure the safety of AI.
Also on Monday, the G7 will agree on a set of measures for companies developing advanced artificial intelligence systems, according to the G7 document.
Vice President Kamala Harris will attend a global summit on artificial intelligence in the United Kingdom this week.
