Amid growing concerns over the risks and potential benefits of artificial intelligence (AI), Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has announced plans to introduce a framework for addressing these issues through piecemeal legislation in the coming weeks.
The Biden administration and lawmakers have been increasingly focused on the regulation of AI, particularly in light of its potential impact on elections and its influence on various aspects of American life. However, progress has been slow in the polarized U.S. Congress, with Europe taking the lead in drafting AI regulations.
Schumer’s roadmap for AI legislation will be informed by expert input and will tackle complex issues surrounding artificial intelligence. These include its implications for intellectual property, labor rights, healthcare, and potential “doomsday scenarios.”
During an interview at an AI summit in Washington, Schumer emphasized the importance of the roadmap, stating that it would provide valuable guidelines for Congress to proceed with AI regulation. He highlighted the role of different congressional committees in translating these guidelines into concrete legislation.
U.S. officials have raised concerns about the risks associated with AI, such as bias, election interference through deep fakes, and the potential misuse of powerful AI models by malicious actors. Schumer underscored the need for action, particularly in light of China’s advancements in AI technology and its implications for national security.
To address these concerns, Schumer outlined a piecemeal approach to AI legislation, acknowledging that some congressional committees are further along in the process than others. He emphasized that waiting for a comprehensive plan covering all aspects of AI regulation is not feasible, and instead, lawmakers will focus on addressing specific issues as they arise.
