What is the Latest White House Order on Artificial Intelligence?

The White House released its executive order on AI on Oct 30 which is the most significant federal action on regulating AI to date. The Executive Order has been under development for several months, representing the culmination of years of efforts to align, coordinate, and regulate the AI sector. The White House’s Voluntary Commitments for safe, secure, and trustworthy AI, along with international initiatives like the G7 Hiroshima Process, and directives and regulations such as EO 13859, EO 13960, and the AI in Government Act, are notable examples of these endeavors that have significantly contributed to this cause.

The true impact of the 20,000 words executive order may take some time to become clear, but here is summary of the order:

·        New Standards for AI Safety and Security: The order requires developers of powerful AI systems to share their safety test results and other critical information with the U.S. government1. It also directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology to set rigorous standards for extensive red-team testing to ensure safety before public release1.

·        Privacy Protection: The order aims to protect privacy, advance equity and civil rights, stand up for consumers and workers, promote innovation and competition, and advance AI leadership around the world.

·        Addressing AI Threats: The Departments of Energy and Homeland Security will address AI systems’ threats to critical infrastructure, as well as chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and cybersecurity risks1.

·        Biological Materials Risk Management: The order protects against the risks of using AI to engineer dangerous biological materials by developing strong new standards for biological synthesis screening1.

·        Impact on Labor Market: The order requires research on AI’s impact on the labor market.

·        Global Standards: Working with international partners to implement AI standards around the world. A positive aspect is the inclusion of key stakeholders in these discussions, encompassing nations such as Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, France, Germany, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, the UAE, and the UK

·        Hiring Technical Workforce: Developing guidance for federal agencies’ use and procurement of AI and speeding up the government’s hiring of workers skilled in the field.

The sweeping initiatives outlined in this Executive Order reflect a coordinated strategy to responsibly advance AI technology. Addressing algorithmic discrimination in AI systems presents intricate challenges rooted in biased data, complex algorithms, rapid tech evolution, and potential unintended consequences. With bipartisan support and engagement across federal agencies, the government can nurture innovation while protecting the public interest. If executed effectively, this order will strengthen America's leadership in ethical AI development. Working together, government, academia, and industry can build an AI future that is safe, secure, and benefits all.