Bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence Launched by U.S. House of Representatives
On Tuesday, the speaker of the House of Representatives, Mike Johnson, and Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries announced the establishment of a bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence (AI). This significant move marks the House’s most notable step towards AI regulation to date. The Task Force comprises eight members who all expressed concerns about AI-generated deep fakes and their potential impact on elections. Representatives Franklin and Beyer urged the Task Force to also consider the existential risks posed by future powerful AI systems.
The Task Force, led by Representative Jay Obernolte of California and co-chaired by Representative Ted Lieu, also from California, will produce a comprehensive report. This report will include guiding principles, forward-looking recommendations, and bipartisan policy proposals developed in consultation with relevant committees.
Representatives Obernolte and Lieu are well-suited to lead the Task Force due to their backgrounds in AI. Obernolte holds a master’s degree in AI and has founded FarSight Studios, while Lieu has studied computer science and political science. Other members of the Task Force, such as Representative Bill Foster, bring their expertise in AI, with Foster mentioning his experience with neural networks in the 1990s. Representative Don Beyer is currently pursuing a master’s degree in machine learning.
The release of OpenAI’s ChatGPT has prompted lawmakers to address the societal implications of AI. In response to this, the Biden Administration has issued an Executive Order to ensure that the United States can harness the benefits of AI while mitigating associated risks. In the Senate, Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has announced a regulatory framework, and numerous Senators have proposed alternative regulatory frameworks and submitted bills.
The establishment of the Task Force represents a significant milestone in AI regulation for the House. Each member brings a unique perspective shaped by their backgrounds and the committees they serve on. Various issues were raised, including the impact of AI on the banking system, healthcare, data protection, and privacy.
One common concern among Task Force members is the potential impact of AI-generated deep fakes on elections. Other recurring themes include the impact of AI-powered hiring software on labor, algorithmic bias, and the importance of maintaining technological superiority over China.
Although the Task Force has yet to convene, its work could pave the way for federal legislation. Some state lawmakers, like Senator Scott Wiener, have already introduced bills aimed at ensuring the safety of powerful AI systems, indicating a willingness to move forward without waiting for Congress. The bipartisan nature of the Task Force has generated optimism among some members, who believe that significant progress can be achieved.
Analyst comment
Positive news: The establishment of the bipartisan Task Force on Artificial Intelligence by the U.S. House of Representatives marks a significant step towards AI regulation. The Task Force will address concerns such as deep fakes and risks posed by powerful AI systems. Led by members with expertise in AI, their work could lead to federal legislation and generate optimism for significant progress in AI regulation.
