The Joe Biden administration is inviting public input on potential accountability measures for artificial intelligence (AI) systems amid concerns over its impact on national security and education.
One such system that has attracted the attention of US lawmakers is ChatGPT, an AI program that has become the fastest-growing consumer application in history with over 100 million monthly active users. ChatGPT is owned by OpenAI, a Microsoft company.
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration, which advises the White House on telecommunications and information policy, is seeking feedback on an AI accountability mechanism, amid growing regulatory interest. The agency is exploring whether measures can be implemented to ensure that AI systems are legal, effective, ethical, safe, and trustworthy.
Alan Davidson, the administrator of NTIA, stressed the importance of responsible AI systems, saying that while they have the potential to bring enormous benefits, companies and consumers need to trust them. President Joe Biden also expressed concern about the safety of AI, stating that tech companies have a responsibility to ensure their products are safe before releasing them to the public.
ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI and backed by Microsoft, has impressed users with its quick responses to queries, but has also faced criticism for inaccuracies. The NTIA plans to draft a report on efforts to ensure that AI systems work as intended and without causing harm. This will inform the Joe Biden administration’s ongoing work to create a cohesive and comprehensive federal government approach to AI-related risks and opportunities.
Meanwhile, the Center for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Policy, a tech ethics group, has asked the US Federal Trade Commission to stop OpenAI from issuing new commercial releases of GPT-4, alleging that it is biased, deceptive, and a risk to privacy and public safety.
