In 2024, the advancement of AI is anticipated to heighten the prevalence of cyber threats.
As per a cybersecurity specialist, the progression of AI is projected to escalate cyber challenges in 2024.
Senator Bill Dodd, representing Napa, introduced legislation on Wednesday aimed at regulating the utilization of artificial intelligence by California state entities.
The proposed California AI Accountability Act, also known as Senate Bill 896, seeks to establish frameworks for the integration of cutting-edge technologies by state agencies. This includes a mandate for public disclosure when employing artificial intelligence systems.
Senator Dodd emphasized the dual nature of artificial intelligence, acknowledging its vast potential to improve societal functions while also underscoring concerns related to consumer privacy, transparency, and fairness. The proposed guidelines aim to identify and mitigate the risks associated with these emerging technologies to safeguard both the state and its citizens.
The bill delineates between different categories and functions of artificial intelligence, categorizing standard AI as tools that can replicate human decision-making processes. It also addresses more advanced systems like “high-risk automatic decision systems” and “generative AI,” which have the capacity to produce text, audio, images, and videos based on data inputs.
The decision to implement regulations overseeing AI aligns with the priorities of President Joe Biden and Governor Gavin Newsom, who have expressed intentions to address the governance of technology at both state and federal levels.
In October 2022, the Biden Administration released a “Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights,” highlighting instances where technology has been misused to collect data covertly, perpetuate discrimination through biased algorithms, or infringe upon civil rights, job opportunities, and economic equity.
The blueprint outlines five key focal points, including the development of secure and effective AI systems, safeguards against algorithmic discrimination, protection of data privacy, transparency in AI usage, and consideration of individuals’ choices and alternatives.
Governor Newsom issued Executive Order N-12-23 in September 2023, endorsing AI systems while acknowledging the potential risks they pose. The order emphasizes California’s prominent position in the technology sector and proposes measures to address the challenges associated with AI, echoing concerns raised by the Biden Administration.
Senator Dodd’s previous resolution, which was the Legislature’s second endeavor to address AI implementation at the state level, was unanimously approved.
The new legislation sets forth guidelines for evaluating, adopting, and overseeing systems with automated decision-making capabilities within state agencies and departments. The responsibility of compiling a comprehensive assessment on the risks and benefits of AI in the state is assigned to the Government Operations Agency, the Department of Technology, and the Office of Data and Innovation in California.
Furthermore, the bill indicates the intention of extending these regulations to the private sector, with a specific emphasis on requiring public disclosure when AI technologies are utilized.
To cultivate a proficient workforce capable of leveraging AI effectively, the bill includes provisions to encourage collaboration between government universities and the private sector in advancing AI education.
The Senate Rules Committee is expected to review the AI Accountability Act in due course.
