Biden’s AI Executive Order Sparks Collaborative Urgency, Senate Majority Leader Schumer Stresses Legislative Action Needed
The Biden administration’s forthcoming executive order on artificial intelligence (AI) has provoked a sense of collaborative urgency among officials from both the Senate and the White House. The order, expected to be released on Monday, aims to leverage the US government’s role as a major technology customer by requiring advanced AI models to undergo assessments before federal workers can use them. Additionally, the order seeks to ease barriers to immigration for highly skilled workers.
However, Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and Biden’s top science adviser have stressed that legislative action is necessary in addition to the executive order. Schumer emphasized the importance of passing legislation to address concerns about AI, particularly in relation to safeguarding elections from disinformation and deepfake technology. He also highlighted the need for significant federal investment in AI development.
Schumer’s efforts to advance AI legislation include holding private forums and collaborating with the White House. He believes there is potential for bipartisan support, especially from conservative Republicans concerned about national security and China’s AI advancements. However, it remains uncertain where newly elected House Speaker Mike Johnson stands on AI issues.
While the executive order represents a comprehensive effort to address the potential and risks of AI tools, both Schumer and Biden’s science adviser agree that more will be needed. Legislation is seen as the key to effectively regulate and advance AI technology. The aim is to strike a balance between innovation and consumer protection, ensuring that AI outputs are explainable and accessible to average users.
In related news, FTX crypto exchange executive Sam Bankman-Fried’s trial on criminal fraud charges continues. Bankman-Fried’s testimony during the trial has drawn attention due to his unconventional style of answering questions, which led the judge to express frustration. The allegations against Bankman-Fried include defrauding FTX customers and investors by diverting funds into risky investments.
Furthermore, the US Treasury Department is set to issue a warning to cryptocurrency firms about the potential misuse of their platforms for terrorism financing. Following scrutiny over how Hamas financed its recent attack on Israel using crypto funds, the Treasury Department aims to address concerns about digital funds supporting terrorist groups. Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo will emphasize the tracking of cryptocurrency firms’ roles in facilitating such activities.
President Biden’s science adviser also expressed support for Britain’s decision to invite China to an upcoming AI summit. Amid concerns about China’s AI development and global standards, the summit aims to facilitate dialogue with various stakeholders, including China. The participation of industry leaders, policymakers, and civil society representatives is crucial in shaping regulations and standards for AI technology.
Lastly, Malaysia has warned TikTok and Meta (formerly Facebook) regarding the alleged blocking of pro-Palestinian content on their platforms. This comes amidst international calls for closer scrutiny of digital platforms and their role in disseminating information related to conflicts. Malaysian authorities are particularly concerned about the impact on freedom of expression and the ability to share diverse perspectives.
