The Joe Biden administration has announced that it will invest $140 million to promote responsible research and innovation in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). The funds will be delivered through the US National Science Foundation, which will fund the creation of seven new National AI Research Institutes. These new institutes will further the application of AI research in strategic areas such as climate change, agriculture, energy, public health, education, and cybersecurity.
The White House noted that this entire effort is aimed at bringing together federal agencies, private sector developers, and academia to seek ethical, trustworthy, and responsible development of AI that serves the public good. In addition, work is underway to engage civil rights organizations, non-profit organizations, communities, and international partners to protect the rights and safety of individuals when it comes to this rapidly evolving technology.
US Vice President Kamala Harris and senior administration officials met with the CEOs of the top companies at the forefront of US AI innovation to discuss government-driven reforms. Harris emphasized that the private sector has an ethical, moral, and legal responsibility to ensure the safety of its products. Biden also showed up to the meeting “to underscore that companies have a fundamental responsibility to make sure their products are safe and secure before they are rolled out or made public,” according to USA Today.
In summary, the investment of 140 million dollars and the creation of the seven new AI research institutes aim to ensure that the development of AI is ethical and responsible and protects the rights and security of people. In addition, the government hopes to work closely with the private sector and other organizations to achieve this goal.