The White House has introduced its inaugural comprehensive policy aimed at managing the potential risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI), calling upon agencies to enhance reporting on their utilization of AI and address any potential risks arising from the technology.
Outlined in a White House memo dated March 28, federal agencies are required to designate a chief artificial intelligence officer within a span of 60 days, disclose their utilization of artificial intelligence, and integrate appropriate safeguards into their practices.
This directive aligns with U.S. President Joe Biden’s executive order on artificial intelligence issued in October 2023. Vice President Kamala Harris emphasized the importance of all leaders—across government, civil society, and the private sector—to ensure that the adoption and development of AI prioritize public protection while ensuring equitable access to its benefits.
Initiated by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), this latest regulation seeks to provide guidance for the safe and effective deployment of artificial intelligence throughout the expanding federal government.
Despite efforts to leverage the potential benefits of artificial intelligence, the Biden administration remains cautious about the evolving risks associated with its deployment. Certain AI applications, particularly within the Department of Defense, will not be compelled to disclose usage due to potential conflicts with existing laws and government-wide policies, as outlined in the memo.
Agencies are tasked with developing specific safeguards for AI applications that may impact the rights or safety of Americans by December 1. For instance, travelers should have the option to opt out of facial recognition technology utilized by the Transportation Security Administration at airports. Agencies unable to implement these safeguards must discontinue the use of AI systems unless agency leadership can demonstrate that not doing so would heighten security or rights risks or impede critical agency operations.
The OMB's recent AI directive mirrors the Biden administration’s Artificial Intelligence Bill of Rights blueprint introduced in October 2022 and the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Artificial Intelligence Risk Management Framework initiated in January 2023. These endeavors underscore the significance of establishing dependable AI systems.
Furthermore, the OMB is seeking input on enforcing compliance and best practices among government contractors providing technology. It aims to ensure that agencies’ AI contracts align with their policies later in 2024. Additionally, the administration has revealed plans to recruit 100 AI professionals into the government by the summer, in line with the "Talent Surge" outlined in the October executive order.
