Six months ago, President Biden issued a landmark Executive Order to position the United States at the forefront of artificial intelligence (AI) innovation and safety. Since then, government agencies have been diligently working to manage AI’s safety and security risks, protect Americans’ privacy, promote equity and civil rights, safeguard consumers and workers, foster innovation and competition, and bolster American leadership on the global stage.
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Federal Agencies Complete 180-Day Actions
On April 29th, federal agencies announced the successful completion of all actions outlined in President Biden’s Executive Order within the specified 180-day timeline. This milestone follows their previous achievements in meeting the 90-day, 120-day, and 150-day deadlines. Furthermore, agencies have made significant progress on tasks assigned under the Executive Order that extend beyond the initial 180-day period.
Actions Completed by Agencies
Here are some of the key actions that agencies have reported as completed:
Managing Risks to Safety and Security
Over the course of 180 days, agencies were tasked with addressing various safety and security risks associated with AI, including those related to hazardous biological materials, critical infrastructure, and software vulnerabilities. To mitigate these risks and others that threaten safety, agencies have:
- Implemented measures to enhance safety and security in AI applications
- Developed protocols to address risks related to critical infrastructure
- Strengthened defenses against software vulnerabilities
Standing up for Workers, Consumers, and Civil Rights
The Executive Order called for decisive actions to mitigate risks posed by AI to workers, consumers, and the civil rights of Americans. Agencies have taken steps to ensure that the development and deployment of AI technologies benefit all Americans. Agencies reported that they have:
- Implemented safeguards to protect workers from potential AI-related risks
- Enforced regulations to safeguard consumer rights in the realm of AI
- Promoted initiatives to uphold civil rights in the context of AI technologies
Harnessing AI for Good
President Biden’s Executive Order also emphasized the importance of leveraging AI for positive purposes. Agencies have been actively working to harness the vast potential of AI by:
- Advancing AI’s applications in scientific research
- Fostering collaboration with the private sector to enhance AI capabilities
- Conducting pilot programs to explore the beneficial uses of AI
Bringing AI Talent into Government
The AI and Tech Talent Task Force has made substantial progress in recruiting top AI professionals through the AI Talent Surge initiative. Since the Executive Order was signed, federal agencies have onboarded over 150 AI and AI-enabling experts. These professionals, along with tech talent programs, are set to hire hundreds more by the summer of 2024. The individuals already hired are actively engaged in critical AI missions, such as:
- Contributing to the utilization of AI in permitting processes
- Providing guidance on AI investments across government agencies
- Developing policies for the responsible use of AI in government operations
International Collaboration
To further bolster its leadership in AI, the U.S. has initiated several international collaborations. President Biden has emphasized the importance of working with allies to establish global standards for AI ethics and governance. These collaborations aim to create a unified approach to AI development, ensuring that advancements are aligned with democratic values and human rights.
Industry Partnerships
The Executive Order has also prompted increased collaboration between federal agencies and the private sector. Industry leaders, including major tech companies, have been invited to share their expertise and resources to accelerate AI innovation. These partnerships are expected to lead to significant breakthroughs in AI applications, from healthcare to environmental protection.
Public Engagement and Education
Recognizing the importance of public understanding and engagement, federal agencies have launched several initiatives to educate the public about AI. These efforts include public forums, educational programs in schools and universities, and online resources to demystify AI technologies and their potential impact on society.
Ethical AI Development
The commitment to ethical AI development remains a cornerstone of the Executive Order. Federal agencies are working on establishing robust ethical guidelines for AI research and deployment. These guidelines aim to ensure transparency, accountability, and fairness in AI systems, preventing biases and safeguarding civil liberties.
President Biden’s vision for the strategic implementation of AI technologies is becoming a reality as federal agencies successfully carry out the directives outlined in the Executive Order. The progress made over the past six months underscores the commitment to harnessing the potential of AI while safeguarding against potential risks and ensuring that the benefits of AI are accessible to all Americans.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, the Biden administration plans to continue its aggressive push toward AI leadership. Upcoming initiatives include the launch of national AI research institutes, increased funding for AI research and development, and further expansion of the AI workforce. These efforts aim to solidify the U.S.’s position as a global leader in AI and ensure that the technology is developed and used responsibly.
