White House and Congress Push Forward on AI Regulation and Development

The White House has released a national security memorandum on artificial intelligence, building upon its recent efforts to protect sensitive data from foreign adversaries. Meanwhile, Congress is simultaneously working on a comprehensive AI package for year-end legislation, reflecting growing bipartisan recognition of AI’s critical importance to national security.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), working with Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), is leading efforts to create a bipartisan AI package focused on R&D aspects and usage guidelines. The legislation, which could be attached to other year-end bills, represents a significant expansion of federal AI oversight.

The White House’s strategy specifically addresses military use of AI, including safeguards for how the military and other agencies use AI for tracking individuals, determining immigration classification, and other sensitive applications. The memo directs U.S. government collaboration with allies to establish a “stable, responsible and rights-respecting governance framework,” expanding upon existing guidelines for responsible AI deployment.

The administration’s guidance also instructs military acquisition personnel to engage with industry, defense companies, and investors regarding AI capabilities and procurement requirements. A key focus is ensuring faster AI deployment than adversaries while protecting against theft of U.S. technological advances, addressing ongoing concerns about technological competition with foreign powers.

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October 29, 2024 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team