Lawmakers in the United States Congress are grappling with the risks and benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) as deepfake scandals continue to emerge. Deepfakes, which involve the use of AI to manipulate or create fake multimedia content, have become a growing concern in both politics and pop culture. The House Administration Chair Bryan Steil and ranking member Joseph D. Morelle referred to recent examples of deepfakes, such as a fake robocall from President Joe Biden and AI-generated lewd images of Taylor Swift, during a hearing on the use of AI in the legislative branch.
Lawmakers are recognizing the need to address the risks associated with the rapidly advancing technology. Various hearings have been held, including one by the Senate Rules and Administration Committee on the use of AI in government institutions like the Library of Congress and the Government Publishing Office. A Senate Judiciary subpanel also hosted a hearing on the use of AI in criminal investigations. Additionally, a House subpanel examined the future of data privacy and AI at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
During the hearings, representatives from government agencies discussed the potential benefits of AI, such as empowering staffers, democratizing government information, and improving efficiency within Congress. They highlighted how AI could be used for quality control in passport manufacturing, proofreading, generating drafts of memos and press releases, and assisting visually impaired individuals at the Library of Congress. The Modernization Subcommittee of the House, led by Representative Stephanie Bice, has also published reports on the various uses of AI in the legislative branch.
While acknowledging the benefits, legislative branch support agencies are taking steps to establish processes and procedures for the responsible use of AI. The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) created a House-wide advisory group and conducted a study on AI governance policies. The study revealed the need for additional generative AI policies, user guidance, and training to ensure successful implementation of AI technologies.
In addition to internal guidelines, lawmakers have introduced bills to address AI-related concerns. Representative Morelle has reintroduced a bill that would make the distribution of deepfake pornography a federal crime. Senator Amy Klobuchar has joined a bill seeking to provide a framework for AI innovation and accountability, and she has also introduced a bill requiring AI-generated political advertisements to carry a disclaimer.
Lawmakers stress the importance of having sophisticated laws to mitigate the risks associated with AI technology. While AI has the potential to drive innovation and improve access to information, it also poses significant threats to democracy. Balancing the risks and benefits of AI remains a priority for lawmakers, as they strive to establish regulations that protect against the misuse and manipulation of AI-generated content.
In conclusion, lawmakers in the US Congress are addressing the risks and benefits of AI as deepfake scandals continue to emerge. Through hearings, discussions, and the introduction of bills, lawmakers aim to establish a framework that harnesses the potential of AI while safeguarding against potential threats to democracy.
