Representative Derek Kilmer has been appointed as the chair of the newly established Artificial Intelligence Working Group by the 97-member New Democrat Coalition in the United States House of Representatives. This proactive move aims to shape new legislation in the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence.
Announced on August 15, this working group is poised to collaborate with President Joe Biden’s administration, stakeholders, and lawmakers from across the political spectrum. Their overarching goal is to craft “sensible, bipartisan policies” that can effectively address the challenges and opportunities posed by emerging AI technology.
The group’s agenda encompasses a broad spectrum of AI-related issues, including strategies to harness AI for economic growth while safeguarding the livelihoods of workers who may be impacted by AI-driven automation.
Chair Derek Kilmer, in an interview with CNBC, highlighted the group’s keen interest in combatting misinformation and the growing prevalence of advanced AI-generated deepfakes online. He expressed genuine concerns about the potential misuse of AI models and the dissemination of AI-generated disinformation.
Kilmer emphasized that tackling these challenges requires swift and informed action from Congress. “There’s real concern about the potential for AI-generated disinformation, real concern about misuse of advanced AI models,” Kilmer stressed. “That’s the type of thing that requires Congress to get smart and get smart fast. “This move aligns with the broader consensus among lawmakers, academics, and prominent tech CEOs about the imperative need to address the risks associated with AI.
In May, Vice President Kamala Harris, alongside key Biden administration advisors, convened a meeting with CEOs from the AI industry to discuss these concerns. Additionally, in June, President Biden himself held discussions with leading AI experts in Silicon Valley to delve into similar issues.
The establishment of the AI Working Group underscores the commitment of the New Democrat Coalition to proactively shape AI policies that are both effective and bipartisan, ensuring that the United States remains at the forefront of AI innovation while responsibly addressing its challenges.