US requiring new AI safeguards for government

By
Rihem Akkouche
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US requiring new AI safeguards for government
US Vice President Kamala Harris looks on as US President Joe Biden signs an executive order after delivering remarks on advancing the safe, secure, and trustworthy development and use of artificial intelligence, in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on October 30, 2023. Biden issued an executive order October 30, 2023, on regulating artificial intelligence, aiming for the United States to "lead the way" in global efforts at managing the new technology's risks, the White House said. The "landmark" order directs federal agencies to set new safety standards for AI systems and requires developers to "share their safety test results and other critical information with the US government," according to a White House statement. (Photo by Brendan SMIALOWSKI / AFP) (Photo by BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images)

In a groundbreaking move, the White House has issued a directive mandating stringent safeguards for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) across all federal agencies. This directive, effective December 1, aims to address safety and civil rights concerns stemming from the widespread adoption of AI technology in various government functions.

New Guidelines to Safeguard Rights and Safety

The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has introduced a comprehensive policy in response to a presidential executive order, emphasizing the need to protect consumers and workers from potential harms associated with AI deployment. Under the new directive, agencies must implement concrete measures to assess, test, and monitor AI’s impacts on the public, ensuring mitigation of algorithmic discrimination and providing transparency into government AI usage.

US requiring new AI safeguards for government : Ensuring Responsible AI Adoption

Vice President Kamala Harris highlighted the significance of responsible AI adoption, emphasizing the appointment of chief AI officers within agencies to oversee AI technologies. These officers are tasked with ensuring that AI is used ethically and responsibly, particularly in critical areas such as healthcare, employment, and housing.

Transparent Government AI Usage

Transparency lies at the core of the new policy, with agencies required to annually publish online lists of their AI systems along with risk assessments and management strategies. This move aims to inform the public about government AI usage while fostering accountability among agency leaders.

Addressing Concerns and Moving Forward

Despite commendations from advocacy groups like the Center for Democracy and Technology (CDT), some areas of improvement remain. The CDT urges agencies to rigorously implement the new policy before the December deadline, emphasizing the importance of effective implementation in safeguarding individual rights and safety.

US requiring new AI safeguards for government : Future Steps

The White House plans to further refine AI procurement rules to align with OMB policy and protect public rights and safety. This initiative includes soliciting public feedback to ensure that private sector companies supporting the government adhere to best practices and requirements.