AI in Legislation

The transformative power of AI is reshaping our world. In response, there's been significant progress in AI legislation and initiatives - here's a rundown of what's been happening.

1. US Investment in AI Research: The establishment of seven National AI Research Institutes, backed by $140 million, aims to drive responsible AI innovation and strengthen the nation's R&D capabilities.

2. Framing AI Ethics - The AI Bill of Rights: The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy has initiated a 'Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights' to ensure automated systems are designed and used in a way that safeguards the American public.

3. Diversity in AI: NIST is actively involved in discussions and research to address diversity in AI.

4. AI Talent Surge: The US has launched an initiative to significantly boost the hiring of AI professionals across federal agencies. This includes a large-scale, flexible hiring authorities for agencies to hire talent.

AI in National Security and Critical Infrastructure

Protecting our critical infrastructure and government networks is top priority. Key initiatives include:

1. Defensive Strategies: Following the recommendations of the 2021 National Security Commission on AI, the U.S. is reinforcing its efforts to defend against AI-accelerated threats. Read more here: 2021 Final Report of the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence

2. Generative AI Task Force (Task Force Lima): Established by the DoD to analyze and integrate generative AI tools, such as large language models, across various departments. This effort is led by the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office. CDAO

3. Risk Assessments in Critical Infrastructure Sectors: The government has completed comprehensive risk assessments covering AI’s use in critical infrastructure sectors. The Department of Defense, Transportation, Treasury, and Health and Human Services have submitted these assessments to the Department of Homeland Security. These assessments are crucial for integrating AI and ensuring continued security for these vital agencies.

4. Disclosure Requirements for AI Developers: The executive administration has initiated a requirement for developers of major AI systems to report their safety test results to the Department of Commerce. This order is aimed at ensuring the safety and security of powerful AI systems and includes reporting on large computing clusters.

5. Enhancing Federal Services: NIST is leading the charge in utilizing AI in robotics and promoting understanding through publications like 'Psychological Foundations of Explainability and Interpretability in Artificial Intelligence.'

Building AI Safely: Security-Centric Development Strategies

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has developed a Roadmap for AI, focusing on:

1. Responsibly using AI for cyber defense

2. Ensuring AI systems are secure and resilient

3. Protecting critical infrastructure from malicious AI use

4. Collaborating on AI efforts

5. Promoting diversity in AI

With these initiatives in place, CISA is actively promoting AI development that is as much about security as it is about innovation.

In collaboration with the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre, CISA also released guidelines for Secure AI System Development. These guidelines, agreed upon globally, are designed to help developers at every stage of AI development make informed cybersecurity decisions.

With CISA's roadmap and the UK's collaboration, we're setting a new standard in AI: it's secure, diverse, and innovative. These steps aren't just about making AI; they're about making AI right.

Final Thoughts: America's AI Future

That's the quick scoop on America's AI efforts, but it's just the beginning. The combined forces of government, industry, and research institutions are not just encouraging; they're driving positive change. With more breakthroughs on the horizon, we're heading towards a future where AI isn't just a part of our national landscape but a key component to our prosperity and security.