Staff Reports
In a grand display of the Biden administration’s determination to lead the world, Vice President Kamala Harris declared in the UK on Wednesday that the United States will be setting international rules for the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Speaking from the American embassy in London, Ms. Harris emphasized the urgent need for new global action to combat the potential dangers of AI.
Highlighting concerns about AI-powered cyberattacks and manipulation, the vice president explained that the push to establish new rules for AI is driven by the administration’s commitment to ensure the responsible use of this advanced technology. To this end, she revealed that 30 nations have already signed onto a US declaration that calls for militaries to use AI responsibly, stressing the importance of maintaining a human chain of command when deploying AI technology.
Ms. Harris argued that it is vital for nations to be guided by a common set of understandings as they navigate the challenges posed by AI. As such, President Biden recently unveiled an executive order that affects domestic AI policy, and Ms. Harris traveled to the UK for a summit with international officials on AI safety. During her visit, she also announced the creation of a United States AI Safety Institute, which will develop standards for testing AI models and provide technical guidance for regulators when establishing rules on discrimination, privacy, and content authentication.
Kamala Harris tells world that the U.S. will shape international rules for AI – https://t.co/TQLtgqXTye
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) November 1, 2023
In addition to these efforts, Ms. Harris stressed the urgent need for Congress to pass new legislation on AI. She assured her commitment to working with partners in Congress to codify meaningful AI and privacy protections. The Democrat-run Senate is already engaged in the process, with four senators, including Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, meeting with President Biden at the White House on Tuesday to discuss AI policy.
Senator Schumer emphasized that increased investment in AI legislation is necessary to prevent China and other countries from surpassing the United States in this critical field. He warned that failure to invest adequately would result in being left behind by China’s significant advancements in AI technology. To address concerns related to the impact of AI on the workforce, Senator Schumer convened a private forum on Wednesday with labor leaders.
As the Biden administration takes swift action, the Office of Management and Budget is preparing to release proposed guidelines for the government’s use of AI. With the creation of the United States AI Safety Institute and ongoing discussions in Congress, the administration’s dedication to establishing AI rules and regulations is clear. The world now awaits the next steps in America’s pursuit of AI leadership.
