U.S. President Joe Biden is set to sign an executive order on artificial intelligence (AI) regulation and national cybersecurity, according to the Washington Post. The order, expected to be signed on October 30, aims to achieve three main goals. Firstly, it will require advanced AI models to undergo an assessment before being utilized by the U.S. government and federal workers. The specific models and assessment criteria are yet to be determined.
Secondly, the order will task various U.S. agencies, including the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, and intelligence groups, with exploring how AI can enhance national cybersecurity. This highlights the administration’s recognition of the significance of AI in addressing cyber threats effectively.
Additionally, the executive order seeks to facilitate the immigration process for skilled tech workers, making it easier for them to enter the United States. This move aligns with Biden’s focus on attracting top talent to support America’s technological advancements.
According to previous reports from Semafor, the order may also require cloud firms to disclose how tech companies utilize cloud computing resources. This measure would help identify potential national security risks associated with foreign AI projects. It remains to be seen whether this aspect will be included in the final order, as reports from different sources vary.
Critics, however, have expressed concerns that surveillance efforts centered around monitoring cloud computing resources could inadvertently impact non-AI industries such as game development and cryptocurrency mining.
While some details are yet to be finalized, the reports indicate that the order will be accompanied by an event hosted by President Biden and the White House on October 30, titled Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence. This demonstrates the administration’s commitment to addressing AI regulation on a global level, following President Biden’s earlier address to the United Nations on the matter.
As the specifics of the executive order are refined, it is essential to consider the potential implications and ensure a balanced approach that accounts for different perspectives. The order’s impact on industry sectors beyond AI, as raised by critics, will require thoughtful consideration to strike an appropriate balance between national security concerns and innovation.
Overall, President Biden’s forthcoming executive order on AI regulation and national cybersecurity reflects the administration’s recognition of AI’s transformative potential and the need for responsible governance to harness its benefits while safeguarding against potential risks.
