Biden's AI executive order issues sweeping regulations to strengthen safety, advance 'equity'

President Biden signed a "landmark" executive order Monday, issuing sweeping regulations on artificial intelligence aimed at strengthening safety, security, privacy, and "advancing equity," according to a White House press release.

The Biden administration stated that the new order establishes "standards for AI safety and security, protects Americans' privacy, advances equity and civil rights, stands up for consumers and workers, promotes innovation and competition, advances American leadership around the world, and more."

The new standards require AI developers to develop standards and testing to ensure their AI-powered systems are "safe, secure, and trustworthy." Companies will also be expected to share the safety test results of their technology with the federal government.

Safety standards will be set by the National Institute of Standards and Technology and implemented by the Department of Homeland Security, the White House reported. The Department of Commerce will be responsible for developing watermarking standards for AI-generated content.

"The Departments of Energy and Homeland Security will also address AI systems' threats to critical infrastructure, as well as chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and cybersecurity risks," the administration added.

The White House called the measure the "most significant actions ever taken by any government to advance the field of AI safety."

Biden is requesting that Congress draft "bipartisan data privacy legislation to protect all Americans, especially kids."

The executive order prioritizes "advancing equity and civil rights" by addressing and preventing "algorithmic discrimination." It provides landlords, benefit programs, and federal contractors with "clear guidance" on preventing "AI algorithms from being used to exacerbate discrimination."

"Irresponsible uses of AI can lead to and deepen discrimination, bias, and other abuses in justice, healthcare, and housing," the White House said.

The president's order calls for the responsible use of AI in the criminal justice system, health care industry, and education. To protect workers, the administration is requesting a report on AI's potential impact on the labor market, including job displacement. It also seeks to ensure the "responsible and effective government use of AI" by issuing guidance for various agencies and calling for the "rapid hiring of AI professionals."

"The actions that President Biden directed today are vital steps forward in the U.S.'s approach on safe, secure, and trustworthy AI. More action will be required, and the Administration will continue to work with Congress to pursue bipartisan legislation to help America lead the way in responsible innovation," the administration stated.

Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!