President Biden’s Executive Order Aims to Regulate and Safeguard AI, Addressing Concerns Over Bias and National Security
In a move to regulate and control the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence (AI), President Joe Biden has signed an executive order aimed at addressing concerns over bias, national security, and the impact on workers. This executive order marks the U.S. government’s most ambitious attempt to spur innovation while ensuring the responsible use of AI technology.
The executive order directs various government agencies to create regulations overseeing AI. Its objective is to establish new standards that safeguard data privacy and cybersecurity, strengthen national security, and administer governmental standards to control the growing AI industry. This order is a significant step towards regulating AI and putting necessary measures in place to mitigate potential risks.
However, it is crucial to note that the executive order is not a law. There are currently no plans in Congress to pass any similar legislation. While the order sets a precedent for AI regulation, its long-term impact will depend on subsequent actions and potential legislative efforts.
One of the notable aspects of this executive order is its commitment to funding research on privacy-preserving technologies in AI. This signifies the importance of protecting privacy, equity, and civil rights in the development and deployment of AI. With technology advancing faster than regulation, this order serves as a clear message to startups that more regulations can be expected in the AI space.
The order also emphasizes the need for global cooperation in AI. James Hendler, chair of the Global Technology Policy Council of the Association for Computing Machinery, highlights the significance of this aspect. The United Nations has recently formed an international panel of experts to examine AI policy, including representatives from countries with different types of government regimes. This executive order reinforces the United States’ awareness of such global initiatives and the importance of collaboration in regulating AI technologies.
However, some experts argue that the U.S. lags behind other countries, including the European Union (EU) and China, in AI regulation. Stephen J. Andriole, the Thomas G. Labrecque Professor of Business Technology at Villanova University’s School of Business, suggests that while executive orders are a positive step, a more comprehensive set of enforceable regulations is necessary. He highlights the need for regulations that protect privacy, guard against misinformation and disinformation, and effectively manage the impact of AI on society.
In conclusion, President Biden’s executive order represents a significant attempt to regulate and safeguard AI technology. By directing government agencies to create regulations overseeing AI, establishing new standards, and promoting global cooperation, the order aims to manage the potential risks and challenges associated with AI development. While the executive order is not a law, it sets expectations for increased regulation and emphasizes the importance of privacy, equity, and civil rights in the AI space. Moving forward, it will be essential to strike a balance between encouraging innovation and addressing concerns surrounding AI.
