Introduction
In 2024 [1], the United States Congress introduced a series of legislative measures aimed at regulating artificial intelligence (AI) and addressing its implications across various sectors. These initiatives reflect a comprehensive approach to managing AI’s impact on national security, workforce development, consumer protection, and ethical standards.
Description
In 2024 [1], members of Congress introduced several bills aimed at regulating artificial intelligence (AI) and addressing its implications [1]. Among these, the AI Accord Act of 2024 requires the Secretary of Defense to develop a strategy for enhancing AI cooperation with Middle Eastern allies [1]. The Workforce of the Future Act promotes access to technology education and upskilling for a modern AI workforce [1]. The AIxBio Defense Sandbox Act directs the Department of Defense (DoD) to create a secure environment for testing AI trained on biological data [1], while a pilot program for AI applications in biotechnology for national security is also established [2].
The AI Ads Act amends the Federal Election Campaign Act to prohibit the use of generative AI for fraudulent campaign representations [1]. The PATHS Act enables secure technology adoption through new contracting authority [1], and the Consumers LEARN AI Act mandates a national strategy for AI consumer literacy [1]. The Secure Artificial Intelligence Act focuses on improving tracking and processing of AI security risks [1], and the Artificial Intelligence Civil Rights Act establishes protections for individual rights concerning computational algorithms [1].
The AWARE Act requires the Secretary of Defense to manage risks associated with military AI use [1], and the Modernizing Data Practices to Improve Government Act extends the Chief Data Officer Council’s authority for secure technology adoption [1]. The Next Generation Military Education Act enhances training access for Department of Defense personnel in AI and machine learning [1]. Additionally, the fiscal year 2025 defense authorization bill includes the appointment of a Chief Digital Engineering Recruitment and Management Officer to define the DoD’s AI workforce and mandates the Chief Digital and AI Officer to develop distance education courses on AI.
The Chief Digital and AI Officer Governing Council will expand its duties to identify AI models that pose national security risks and make policy recommendations [2]. Policies will also be developed for managing digital data to enhance maintenance activities [2], and the DoD will assess the feasibility of using AI-enabled software to optimize workflow operations and encourage its use for auditing financial statements [2]. A Multilateral AI Working Group will be established [2], and the Chief Information Office will report on cloud computing capabilities [2].
Further initiatives include improving the usability of AI systems through cognitive ergonomics [2], establishing an advanced computing infrastructure program [2], and developing a plan for budgeting AI data acquisition [2]. A center of excellence for AI-enabled weapon systems will be created [2], and the policy of maintaining a human “in the loop” for critical nuclear weapon employment actions will be affirmed [2]. Additionally, various states enacted laws addressing deceptive media and deepfakes in political contexts [1], reflecting a growing concern over the ethical implications of AI technologies [1].
Conclusion
These legislative efforts underscore the growing recognition of AI’s transformative potential and the need for robust frameworks to ensure its responsible use. By addressing national security, workforce readiness, consumer protection, and ethical considerations, these measures aim to harness AI’s benefits while mitigating its risks. The enactment of these laws marks a significant step towards a more secure and equitable integration of AI technologies into society.
References
[1] https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/akin-intelligence-september-october-2024-6763683/
[2] https://www.akingump.com/en/insights/alerts/Lawmakers-Advance-AI-Provisions-in-Must-Pass-Defense-Bill-FY25
