President Biden is set to unveil an executive order regulating artificial intelligence (AI), a move that has been long awaited by experts. The order is being hailed as the most significant attempt by the government to regulate the rapidly advancing technology. The news comes after The Washington Post reported on the Biden administration’s plans for the executive order, which aims to ensure responsible AI innovation and establish a framework for detailed steps beyond the initial order.
Experts and industry leaders have expressed their support for the move, emphasizing the need for certain pillars of regulation. Phil Siegel, the founder of the Center for Advanced Preparedness and Threat Response Simulation (CAPTRS), commended the administration for taking the first step but urged the need for a comprehensive framework to safeguard freedoms. Siegel highlighted four key pillars of regulation: protecting vulnerable populations, preventing AI from being used for criminal activities, ensuring fairness by eliminating biases in AI data and models, and prioritizing trust and safety in AI systems.
The advancements in AI technology have raised concerns about surveillance and its impact on jobs. In response, 15 major AI developers have voluntarily agreed to share data about AI safety with the government. The Biden administration’s executive order is expected to build on these commitments and address critical regulations to ensure the trust and effectiveness of AI technologies.
Christopher Alexander, Chief Analytics Officer at Pioneer Development Group, emphasized the importance of regulation to prevent discriminatory algorithms and security vulnerabilities. He stated that punitive measures would be necessary to enforce regulations effectively and maintain public trust in the industry.
However, some individuals remain skeptical of the planned order, expressing concerns that it may be used to advance other political objectives rather than focusing solely on regulating AI. Aiden Buzzetti, president of the Bull Moose Project, called for responsible safeguards that promote both innovation and data privacy and security. He also highlighted the need for regulations that do not favor large tech companies and hinder smaller innovators.
The details of the executive order have not been finalized, and the timing of its release could change. The White House has sent invitations for a “Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence” event hosted by President Biden, indicating the administration’s commitment to the issue.
While experts and industry leaders welcome the move towards regulating AI, there are concerns about potential negative impacts on innovation and entrepreneurialism. Striking a balance between data security, privacy, and innovation will be crucial for successful AI regulations in the United States.
The White House has yet to comment on the executive order.
