The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Issues Request for Information (RFI) on AI Implementation
The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has recently issued a Request for Information (RFI) as part of the implementation of responsibilities outlined in the Executive Order on Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence. This initiative aims to gather public input to assist in the development of new standards for AI safety and security.
The Executive Order, directed by President Biden, represents a comprehensive approach to managing the risks and opportunities presented by AI. It highlights the critical need to protect privacy, advance equity and civil rights, and ensure consumer and worker protection. The order encompasses various aspects, including the development of standards, tools, and tests to ensure AI systems are safe, secure, and trustworthy.
NIST’s RFI specifically calls for information in key areas such as AI red-teaming, generative AI risk management, minimizing the risk of synthetic content, and shaping responsible global technical standards for AI development. The responses collected will support NIST in creating guidelines as mandated by the Executive Order. This includes evaluating AI technologies, facilitating consensus-based standards, and providing testing environments for AI systems.
The Biden administration’s focus on AI extends beyond safety and security. The Executive Order also addresses the need to protect Americans’ privacy, mitigate algorithmic discrimination and biases, and leverage AI for consumer benefits. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of adapting the workforce and workplaces to the changing AI landscape, promoting innovation and competition in AI, and establishing the U.S. as a global leader in responsible AI development and usage. This involves collaborating with international partners to develop safe and interoperable AI standards and ensuring responsible government deployment of AI.
One area of concern that the Executive Order highlights is generative AI, which is capable of creating text, photos, and videos. This technology raises concerns about its impact on jobs, elections, and the balance of power between humans and AI. The order instructs agencies to set standards for AI testing and address related risks such as chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and cybersecurity risks. NIST plays a central role in establishing these standards and guidelines, which are crucial for assessing and managing AI risks.
The deadline for responses to NIST’s RFI is February 2, 2024. This is an opportunity for the public to contribute to the development of AI standards and guidelines that will shape the future of AI in the United States. By gathering input from various stakeholders, NIST can ensure that AI systems are safe, secure, and trustworthy, while also addressing concerns related to privacy, discrimination, and bias.
The implementation of the Executive Order on Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence reflects the government’s commitment to harnessing the potential of AI while minimizing its risks. With NIST leading the way in developing standards and guidelines, the U.S. is taking significant steps towards becoming a global leader in responsible AI development and usage.
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