The US government is seeking assistance from qualified members of the public to navigate the opportunities and challenges associated with generative AI. To facilitate this, Gina Raimondo, the US Secretary of Commerce, has announced the launch of a public working group by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). This working group will focus specifically on AI technologies that can generate content such as text, images, videos, music, and code. Additionally, the group will collaborate to develop guidance that organizations can follow to address the risks posed by generative AI technology.
Comprised of volunteers with technical expertise from both the private and public sectors, the group will utilize a collaborative online workspace to accomplish its objectives. Initially, the focus will be on gathering input regarding the utilization of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework. This framework was developed by the agency to better manage risks associated with artificial intelligence and will be used to support the development of generative AI technology. In the long term, the working group aims to explore how generative AI can be leveraged to solve the pressing issues of our time, such as those related to health, climate change, and the environment.
Expressing the importance of this initiative, Raimondo stated, “President Biden has been clear that we must work to harness the enormous potential while managing the risks posed by AI to our economy, national security, and society. The recently released NIST AI Risk Management Framework can help minimize the potential for harm from generative AI technologies. Building on the framework, this new public working group will help provide essential guidance for those organizations that are developing, deploying, and using generative AI and who have a responsibility to ensure its trustworthiness.”
The government has been striving to keep pace with the rapidly advancing field of generative AI technology. In April, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration solicited public comments on potential regulations that would hold AI creators accountable. Moreover, the White House invited American workers to share their experiences with automated tools in their workplaces. Subsequently, in June, Representatives Ted Lieu (D-CA) and Ken Buck (R-CO) introduced legislation to establish a commission responsible for studying ways to mitigate the risks and potential harms of AI, while also ensuring America’s leadership in global technology.
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This legislative proposal emerged after Brad Smith, the vice chair and president of Microsoft, addressed the need for a dedicated agency to regulate AI during a speech in Washington, DC. Smith called on the US federal government to establish an agency that would focus solely on regulating artificial intelligence.
The establishment of the NIST public working group for generative AI is a significant step in addressing the ethical and practical considerations associated with this technology. By involving qualified members of the public, the government aims to harness diverse perspectives and expertise to shape policies and regulations that strike a balance between innovation and safeguarding individuals, organizations, and society as a whole.
Generative AI has enormous potential to transform various industries and sectors, but it also carries inherent risks. It is essential to ensure that the development, deployment, and use of generative AI adhere to ethical guidelines and promote trustworthiness. The public working group will play a pivotal role in providing essential guidance to organizations working with generative AI technologies, giving them the tools necessary to navigate risks and develop responsible practices.
The government’s proactive approach, seeking input from both experts and the public, exemplifies the commitment to responsible AI development. As the field continues to advance, it is crucial to maintain a constant dialogue and collaboration between stakeholders to address emerging challenges and seize opportunities for the betterment of society.
In conclusion, the US government, through the NIST public working group, is seeking input from qualified individuals in order to navigate the opportunities and challenges associated with generative AI technology. The group aims to develop guidance that will enable organizations to address the risks posed by generative AI and explore how this technology can be utilized to solve critical issues. By involving both experts and the public, the government is taking proactive steps to promote responsible AI development and ensure the trustworthiness of generative AI technology.
