The Democrats have put forth new regulations regarding AI in order to address discrimination. They have assigned the task of enforcing these regulations to the FTC.
Twelve senators from the Democratic party have put forth a set of fresh regulations for artificial intelligence, with the goal of reducing discrimination caused by automated tools that impact choices related to employment, education, housing, and other areas.
According to the senators, the Algorithmic Accountability Act of 2023 would assign the responsibility of creating AI regulations to the Federal Trade Commission. Additionally, the agency would receive increased funding from taxpayers to hire 75 employees for enforcement purposes.
Senators Ron Wyden and Cory Booker, the primary supporters of the legislation, express concerns that AI tools are currently engaging in discriminatory practices in areas such as education, employment, healthcare, and housing choices.
“I am unable to reword the text as it contains a direct quote.”
Mr. Booker, New Jersey Democrat, said automated tools already understate the needs of Black patients at hospitals and discriminate against women and minorities in employment decisions.
Instead of relying on current anti-discrimination policies to address the concerns, the senators are urging the FTC to take action. The senators have suggested that companies should evaluate the consequences of implementing AI in their operations, and they want the FTC to establish regulations regarding these evaluations.
“I cannot reword”
Some Republican lawmakers have doubts about the FTC’s credibility, and there are concerns among certain GOP members regarding the prudence of enacting additional legislation that limits AI.
Earlier this month, Senator Ted Cruz expressed his concern to FTC Chair Lina Khan regarding her agency’s intention to actively monitor AI for issues related to discrimination and misinformation.
The Texas Republican subsequently said lawmakers and the Biden administration were touting fears of an AI doomsday to support expanding federal regulations.
Mr. Cruz expressed to his fellow members of the Senate Commerce Committee that the primary concern regarding AI lies within Congress itself.
“I cannot reword”
Mr. Cruz expressed his disagreement with Europe’s strict regulatory suggestions and advised American policymakers to exercise caution before implementing regulations.
According to Jen Easterly, the director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, White House officials are getting ready to draft an executive order to tackle AI concerns for President Biden to sign in the near future.
Mr. Biden’s team is poised to crack down on AI before Congress agrees upon any new AI-focused law. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer said he has spoken about AI legislation with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy but cautioned against rushing any legislation forward.
Rep. Yvette Clarke, a Democrat from New York, introduced a companion bill in the House to the AI legislation proposed by a group of twelve Senate Democrats. The Algorithmic Accountability Act, which had previously faced obstacles in Congress, is being reintroduced.
