In an exclusive update, the leader of the House of Representatives’ newly formed Artificial Intelligence Task Force has announced plans for upcoming hearings on artificial intelligence. This initiative is part of Congress’s efforts to stay ahead of the fast-evolving AI technology.
The primary goal of the task force, as stated by Rep. Jay Obernolte, R-Calif., is to publish a report by the end of the year. This report will outline a regulatory framework for artificial intelligence, featuring several key pillars. These pillars will address the concerns raised by members of the task force.
Rep. Obernolte shared that the task force plans to organize a series of hearings to delve into these broad-based pillars. Initially, these sessions might be conducted behind closed doors. This approach aims to foster open discussions among lawmakers and witnesses. A more public phase of hearings will follow.
The task force’s approach to hearings will vary. Some will be private to encourage open questions from task force members, possibly revealing areas of uncertainty or lack of knowledge. Other hearings will follow a more traditional format, with formal question-and-answer sessions with witnesses.
This bipartisan effort, led by Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., had its first meeting recently. The discussions in this meeting focused on the potential directions the task force could take.
Speaker Johnson emphasized the importance of not stifling innovation with regulations. However, he acknowledged the need for some form of guardrails to guide the development and use of AI technologies.
The task force has already begun discussing a wide range of topics related to AI regulation. These discussions have covered concerns about deepfakes in election interference, biases in AI systems, intellectual property issues, and the structure of potential federal regulation. The task force is considering various approaches, including a new licensing scheme or empowering existing regulators.
The task force is scheduled to meet again later this week, continuing its important work in shaping the future of AI regulation.
Elizabeth Elkind, a politics reporter for Fox News Digital, covers the House of Representatives. Follow her on Twitter at @liz_elkind for more updates and send tips to elizabeth.elkind@fox.com.