Summary of Biden's AI Executive Order: A Landmark Moment for Responsible AI
Summary and insights
Hi AI ethics enthusiasts,
President Biden's new AI Executive Order (EO 14110) , issued on October 30, 2023, establishes a comprehensive, government-wide approach to AI regulation. It's not just a set of guidelines; it's a call to action for federal agencies to take concrete steps in managing AI's potential and risks.
People often describe the US approach to AI regulation as “light tough.” The reason is that the US is not expected to pass robust AI-specific laws like the European Union’s EU AI Act.
However, this executive order demonstrates why the “light touch” characterization is inaccurate. Passing new laws is not the only way to enforce regulation on AI companies. It can also be done by strengthening the activity of enforcement agencies, who can enforce all laws, not just AI-specific laws, on companies developing and deploying AI products. The US approach to AI regulation does that: It relies on the activities of federal agencies, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), which have already been fairly active.
Therefore, understanding this EO is essential for understanding the US approach to AI regulation.
In this post, I will summarize key points of the new Executive Order:
Big picture
Generative AI
AI in chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear (CBRN) weapons
Dual-use foundation models
Risk mitigation
Harnessing AI’s power
For dessert, an AI-generated take on this post is at the end!
The Big Picture: A Federal Approach to AI Governance
The EO establishes a Federal government-wide approach by requiring or encouraging Federal agencies to perform various actions, highlighting the following principles:
Ensuring AI Safety and Security
Promoting Responsible Innovation, Competition, and Collaboration
Supporting American Workers
Advancing Equity and Civil Rights
Enforcing Existing Consumer Protection Laws
Protecting Privacy and American Liberties
Improving AI Skills in the Federal Government
Engaging with International Allies on AI Risk Management
To oversee these activities, the order establishes the White House Artificial Intelligence Council. This high-level body will play a crucial role in coordinating efforts across the federal government.