Several federal agencies released a joint statement on April 4 pledging to protect the public from unlawful bias in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other automated systems in the workplace.
Agencies that have made commitments include the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Department of Justice, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Federal Trade Commission, Department of Education, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Housing and Urban Development; Masu. of labor.
“Many automation systems rely on vast amounts of data to find patterns and correlations, and then apply those patterns to new data to perform tasks or make recommendations or predictions. ” said the statement. “While these tools are useful, they can also produce results that result in unlawful discrimination.”
The report notes that AI-related discrimination can take many forms.
- Data and datasets may contain errors that can lead to bias.
- Some automated systems lack transparency, which often makes it difficult for users to know whether the technology is fair.
- Developers may design systems based on incorrect assumptions about users.
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Government agencies have already begun the fight against discrimination.
In an April 4 report, several federal agencies outlined their performance in preventing discrimination in the workplace. For example, the Department of Labor's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs requires contractors and subcontractors doing business with the federal government to take affirmative action and not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, or sexual orientation. We hold them accountable for complying with legal requirements. , gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
(Ministry of Labor)
President Biden issues executive order on AI
President Joe Biden signed a first-of-its-kind executive order in October 2023 to ensure that AI evolves in a way that maximizes its potential while limiting risk. The order requires developers of the most powerful AI systems to share internal test data with the government to ensure safety before making them available to the public. The Department of Commerce will develop guidance on content authentication to clearly label AI-generated content to protect against AI-powered fraud.
(SHRM Online)
White House announces policies to reduce risks and enhance benefits of AI
As part of Biden's AI Executive Order, Vice President Kamala Harris announced on March 28 that the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) will issue the first government-wide policy to reduce the risks and leverage the benefits of AI. announced that it would be announced. This order strengthens the safety and security of AI, protects Americans' privacy, promotes equity and civil rights, stands up for consumers and workers, fosters innovation and competition, and strengthens America's reputation around the world. He ordered drastic actions to improve leadership.
(White House)
White House orders federal agencies to appoint chief AI officers
The White House also ordered all federal agencies to appoint chief artificial intelligence officers to oversee the federal government's various approaches to AI and manage the risks that rapidly evolving technology can pose. .
(CBS News)
