This third part of our break-down of the AI Executive Order is all about the protection of human and civil rights. It covers sections 6, 7, and 8 of the document and touches on a broad array of risks and challenges:
Section 6 - Supporting Workers:
Support for Laid-Off Workers: The executive order emphasizes the need for support for workers who face job displacement due to AI technologies. This includes implementing measures to assist workers in finding new employment opportunities.
Guidelines for Employers: Guidelines and principles will be established for employers, outlining the ethical use of AI in the workplace. This includes ensuring full compensation for workers who are monitored or augmented by AI technologies.
Training Programs: To address the evolving job market, the executive order calls for the development of training programs focused on skill development. These programs aim to equip workers with the necessary skills to adapt to the changing technological landscape.
Section 7 - Advancing Equity and Civil Rights:
Prevention of Civil Rights Violations: The order directs a thorough assessment of legal and prosecution options to prevent civil rights violations and discrimination resulting from the use of AI, including algorithmic discrimination.
AI in the Legal System: Investigation into the current use, potential, and safeguards of AI in the legal system is emphasized. This includes areas such as sentencing, risk assessment, policy surveillance, crime forecasting, forensic analysis, and prison management.
Skilled Law Enforcement: Recruitment and training programs for skilled law enforcement personnel will be implemented to enhance the understanding and responsible use of AI technologies in the field.
Prevention of Discrimination: The order aims to prevent discrimination and other harms through the use of AI in Federal Government programs and benefits administration. This includes providing guidances for automated hiring processes for federal contractors.
Equal Access Considerations: Ensuring fair access to housing, non-discriminatory use of credit reporting, and equal consideration for disabled individuals. Special attention will be given to addressing barriers for access to information and transportation resulting from AI, such as the use of biometric information.
Section 8 - Protecting Consumers, Patients, Passengers, and Students:
Regulatory Assessment: Independent regulatory agencies are encouraged to assess how current regulations can be applied to address risks related to fraud, discrimination, threats to privacy, and financial stability posed by AI technologies. Consideration will be given to whether existing regulations need extensions or revisions.
Health and Human Services: Regulation will be developed for the health and human services sector, including the implementation of real-world performance monitoring and evaluation for specific subgroups.
AI in Education: Measures will be taken to ensure the safe use of AI in education. This includes developing guidelines for the ethical and responsible integration of AI technologies in educational settings.
Combating Unwanted Automated Communications: Efforts to block unwanted robocalls and robotexts will be strengthened to protect individuals from intrusive and potentially harmful communications.
Stay tuned for the final fourth part of this mini-series coming up soon.