President Joe Biden convened in the Oval Office with his top advisers in April, using ChatGPT to summarize a Supreme Court ruling and transform it into a Bruce Springsteen song. Impressed by the AI chatbot’s capabilities, the president recognized the significance of artificial intelligence (AI) and emphasized its importance as a priority during the meeting. The growing interest in ChatGPT and AI prompted the White House to prioritize AI policy work, holding frequent meetings and discussing it during strategy sessions. The administration is taking steps to address AI’s impact on various areas, including misinformation, cybersecurity, economic transformation, and equity.
President Biden recently met with AI experts and academics in San Francisco to gain a non-industry perspective on the risks and opportunities associated with AI. The administration is preparing to unveil several policy actions, including executive orders, this summer to maximize the impact of existing regulations, harness the potential of AI, and establish new safeguards for this rapidly evolving technology. Recognizing the need for swift action, officials are working to shape the regulatory framework through executive action while also acknowledging the potential need for legislation.
Efforts are underway to inventory existing government regulations that can be applied to AI and identify areas where new regulations are necessary. Leading AI companies are expected to announce privacy and safety commitments in coordination with the White House, with the federal government ensuring compliance. The Office of Management and Budget plans to release guidance for federal agencies on the use and procurement of AI technologies. National security adviser Jake Sullivan and his team are developing cybersecurity policies related to AI and collaborating with the G7 to establish international norms.
The White House’s increased focus on AI policy is attributed to Chief of Staff Jeff Zients, who is well-versed in the tech sector. The administration is building upon its previous Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights and drawing on the risk management framework released by the Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology. Executive actions and additional measures are expected throughout the summer.
The popularization of ChatGPT has raised concerns and heightened awareness about the risks associated with AI. President Biden acknowledged the immense potential and danger of AI, emphasizing the need for careful consideration and regulation. The administration has demonstrated a sense of urgency and is committed to addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by AI.