6-6-2023 (WASHINGTON) Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced on Tuesday that he has scheduled three briefings for senators to enhance their understanding of artificial intelligence (AI), with the first-ever classified briefing on the subject.
In a letter addressed to his colleagues, the Democratic leader emphasized the need for senators to delve deeper into the realm of AI, highlighting its transformative impact across various sectors.
“AI is already reshaping our world, and experts have consistently warned us about its profound implications, ranging from national security and education to workforce dynamics and potential job displacement,” Schumer stated.
The initial briefing will provide a comprehensive overview of AI, while the second session will focus on strategies to achieve American leadership in the field. The third briefing, classified due to its implications for defense and intelligence, will specifically address related issues.
Specific dates and times for these briefings will be announced at a later stage, Schumer noted.
Schumer’s initiative, launched in April, aims to establish regulations governing AI to address concerns related to national security and education, particularly as the use of AI programs like ChatGPT becomes increasingly prevalent.
ChatGPT, an AI program that gained widespread attention for its rapid and versatile response capabilities to a wide range of queries, has caught the interest of U.S. lawmakers. With over 100 million monthly active users, it has become the fastest-growing consumer application in history.
While Schumer’s plan will require approval from both Congress and the White House, the effort represents the most concrete step towards the adoption of new regulations by the U.S. government to address mounting concerns surrounding generative AI.
As AI continues to shape the future, policymakers and legislators are recognizing the necessity of proactive measures to harness its potential while mitigating associated risks. The scheduled briefings mark a crucial step towards equipping senators with the knowledge and understanding required to make informed decisions regarding the regulation and governance of AI.
