Rep. Jay Obernolte, a California Republican, has been chosen to lead the House task force on artificial intelligence (AI). In an interview with Digital, Obernolte outlined his goals for the panel and shared his thoughts on the rapidly advancing technology.
The United States, along with more than 50 members of the United Nations, is working towards a draft resolution that aims to establish AI safety guidelines. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield read a statement discussing the resolution titled “Seizing the Opportunities of Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence Systems for Sustainable Development.” The resolution calls on member states to promote safe and trustworthy AI systems to address global challenges such as poverty elimination, global health, food security, climate, energy, and education.
While international consensus on AI policy has become a priority for major nations, it is important to note the efforts of Republicans and conservatives in this field. The U.K. recently hosted an international safety summit where world leaders gathered to discuss their concerns and signed a declaration. Signatories to the Bletchley Declaration, including the U.S., the U.K., China, Saudi Arabia, and members of the European Union, committed to establishing their own safety commissions and pursuing a shared policy for nations to follow.
The European Commission has also taken steps in this direction by opening its AI office, which aims to serve as a global reference point for AI safety policy. Additionally, the European Union has implemented the world’s first comprehensive law on artificial intelligence, known as the E.U. AI Act.
The U.S. has not been idle either. In response to the safety summit, the country established the U.S. Artificial Intelligence Safety Institute under the National Institute of Standards of Technology. This institute will facilitate the development of standards for safety, security, and testing of AI models. The U.S. national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, emphasized the importance of a global conversation on managing the implications of AI technology.
The U.S. has engaged with the United Nations in negotiating the draft resolution, receiving input from approximately 120 nations and working through several drafts. The resolution will be formally considered later this month. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield stressed the urgent need for collective action as AI technologies continue to rapidly develop.
Supporters of the resolution argue that creating a shared policy aligns with the mission of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which aims to end poverty and hunger and combat inequalities. They believe that AI can play a crucial role in achieving these ambitious goals.
Numerous nations, including Morocco, Peru, the United Arab Emirates, Dominican Republic, Australia, Romania, Israel, Canada, Finland, Greece, and members of the European Union, have expressed their support for the U.S. resolution. The European Mission to the United Nations urged all member states to co-sponsor and support its adoption, highlighting the importance of safe, secure, and trustworthy AI systems. Australian Ambassador James Larsen emphasized the need for responsible AI use, while the United Arab Emirates Mission to the United Nations praised the cooperation among member states in pursuing the resolution.
In conclusion, the U.S. government, under Republican leadership, is taking significant steps towards establishing AI safety guidelines. The draft resolution, supported by a wide range of nations, aims to promote safe and trustworthy AI systems to address global challenges. As AI technology continues to advance, it is essential to ensure its responsible and ethical use for the benefit of humanity.
