In a move that underscores the Biden administration’s commitment to ensuring the safe development and deployment of artificial intelligence (AI), top White House aide Elizabeth Kelly has been appointed as the director of the newly established AI Safety Institute. This announcement comes as AI technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, raising concerns about potential risks and unintended consequences.
Kelly, currently an economic policy adviser for President Joe Biden, played a pivotal role in drafting the executive order that established the AI Safety Institute. In a draft announcement obtained by The Associated Press, Lael Brainard, director of the White House National Economic Council, praised Kelly for shaping the president’s agenda on tech and financial regulation, as well as her efforts in building broad coalitions of stakeholders.
The AI Safety Institute, which is housed within the National Institute for Standards and Technology under the Commerce Department, will have a crucial role in fostering the responsible development of AI technology. By July, the institute will establish “red team” testing standards for major AI developers. These safety tests will ensure that AI systems are secure and reliable for both consumers and businesses, thus enabling the wider adoption of AI technology.
The federal government has already begun requiring AI companies to conduct testing on their systems. However, existing tests lack a universal set of standards. The AI Safety Institute aims to address this gap by finalizing comprehensive and standardized safety testing protocols by the summer of 2024.
Elizabeth Kelly brings a wealth of experience to her new role as the director of the AI Safety Institute. A graduate of Yale Law School, she has previously served in the Obama White House and worked at the financial company Capital One. Her diverse background and expertise in economic policy make her well-suited to navigate the complex challenges surrounding AI safety and regulation.
The Biden administration’s decision to appoint Kelly as the director of the AI Safety Institute reflects a commitment to taking a proactive approach to AI regulation. By establishing a dedicated institute focused on safety standards, the administration aims to address potential risks and ensure the responsible development and deployment of AI technology.
As AI continues to shape various industries and aspects of our lives, it is crucial to prioritize safety and ensure that the benefits of this transformative technology are enjoyed by society without compromising ethical considerations. With Elizabeth Kelly at the helm of the AI Safety Institute, there is hope for a future where AI development is not only innovative but also responsible and secure.
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