US Enlists Volunteer Experts to Mitigate Risks from Generative AI

In a bid to capitalize on the benefits and tackle the challenges posed by generative AI, the US government is seeking aid from skilled members of the public. Gina Raimondo, US Secretary of Commerce, has proclaimed that the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) will establish a public working group devoted to AI technologies capable of creating content such as text, images, videos, music, and code. The group will also aid the agency in creating vital guidelines to mitigate risks associated with generative AI technologies.

The agency has specified that the group will comprise volunteers possessing technical expertise from both the private and public sectors. They will collectively work in a shared online workspace. Initially, the group’s objective will be to gather insights on the usage of the NIST AI Risk Management Framework – a framework devised by the agency to proficiently manage risks related to artificial intelligence that may affect individuals, organizations, and society – in advancing generative AI technologies. The group will then assist the agency with AI-related tests and evaluations. In the long run, their goal is to investigate ways in which generative AI can address urgent global issues like health, climate change, and environmental challenges.

In a statement, Raimondo stated,

“President Biden has emphasized our obligation to leverage the tremendous potential of AI while simultaneously managing its risks to our economy, national security, and society. The newly introduced NIST AI Risk Management Framework is designed to minimize possible harm from generative AI technologies. Building on this framework, the newly formed public working group will provide indispensable guidance to organizations engaged in the development, deployment, and utilization of generative AI, thereby ensuring its trustworthiness.”

In an attempt to keep pace with the rapid evolution of generative AI technology, the government has been making considerable efforts. In April, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration sought public opinions on potential regulations that could hold AI developers accountable. The White House also encouraged American workers to share their experiences with automated tools in their workplaces. Later in June, Representatives Ted Lieu (D-CA) and Ken Buck (R-CO) proposed a bill to establish a 20-member commission to study ways to “mitigate the risks and potential damages” of AI while also “safeguarding” America’s standing as a global technology leader. This proposal was brought forward after Microsoft vice-chair and president Brad Smith made a public appeal in Washington, DC, urging the US federal government to create a dedicated agency for AI regulation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Generative AI Risks

More about Generative AI Risks

• National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
• NIST AI Risk Management Framework
• National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)
• AI Regulation Proposals in the US
• The Impact of AI on US Economy
• Microsoft on AI regulation