The White House has been actively working on developing a framework for the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the United States1. In October 2022, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) published a Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights, which outlined five core principles to guide the development and implementation of AI systems1. However, the nonbinding nature of the document raises questions about its effectiveness in prompting necessary congressional action1.
The Urgency of AI Regulation
The rapid advancements in AI technology have propelled it into the public consciousness, making it a central priority for the White House3. The administration has been holding frequent meetings to advance AI policy and address the challenges posed by this transformative technology3. The urgency to regulate AI is driven by the need to avoid repeating past mistakes, such as the failure to regulate social media early on3.
Progress in AI Regulation
The United States has made progress in developing domestic AI regulation, including the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) AI Risk Management Framework, the Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights, and existing laws and regulations that apply to AI systems, such as scrutiny by the Federal Trade Commission5. However, more is needed to establish a comprehensive approach to domestic AI regulation5.In June 2023, a bipartisan group of legislators introduced a bill to create a commission focused on AI regulation4. The commission aims to strike a balance between mitigating the risks and harms of AI and preserving the United States’ leadership in AI innovation4.
Challenges in AI Regulation
One of the main challenges in AI regulation is keeping up with the rapid development of AI technologies, as AI systems are becoming increasingly powerful and having a much faster impact than the government can react5. Another challenge is striking the right balance between addressing potential drawbacks and harnessing the transformative power of AI for societal and economic benefits4.
Moving Forward with AI Regulation
To ensure effective AI regulation in the United States, the following steps should be considered:
- Develop a comprehensive domestic AI regulatory framework that addresses potential risks and promotes responsible AI development and use5.
- Encourage international cooperation on AI governance to strengthen the United States’ capacity to lead on global AI regulations5.
- Engage with AI industry leaders and stakeholders to ensure that AI regulation is tailored to the needs of the U.S. economy4.
In conclusion, AI regulation in the United States is a pressing issue that requires a balanced approach between mitigating risks and fostering innovation. By developing a comprehensive domestic AI regulatory framework and engaging with international partners and industry stakeholders, the United States can ensure responsible AI development and maintain its leadership in this transformative technology.