House Speaker Mike Johnson and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently met at the U.S. Capitol to discuss the role of Congress in legislating on artificial intelligence (AI). The meeting, described as “very good” by Johnson, aimed to explore the approach Congress should take towards AI. “There’s unlimited potential in AI, but we also all agree that there are some dangers as well,” Johnson explained. Both Johnson and Altman recognized the need for Congressional involvement in understanding and addressing these risks while advancing the benefits of AI.
During the meeting, Johnson and Altman had a “thoughtful discussion” on how the Senate and House can work together in a bipartisan manner to navigate the complex landscape of AI. Altman acknowledged the importance of Congress’s role in this endeavor, stating, “I’m grateful for how much he cares about the issue and excited to see what the legislative process will do.” While the specifics of their discussion were not disclosed, Altman emphasized the need to strike a balance between reaping the tremendous potential of AI and managing the associated risks.
The meeting between Johnson and Altman followed an announcement by the House Financial Services Committee of a bipartisan working group examining the impact of AI on the finance industry. With rapid advancements in AI technology, there is a need to explore its potential and consider how it can be utilized to promote an inclusive financial system. “The Working Group will explore this technology’s potential, specifically its adoption in our financial system,” explained Chairman Patrick McHenry. The group also aims to leverage AI to establish the United States as a leader in AI development and usage.
Ranking member Rep. Maxine Waters highlighted the importance of investigating potential biases or discrimination embedded in AI systems. She emphasized the need to ensure that the adoption of AI in financial services and housing markets does not perpetuate historical inequities.
Overall, the meeting between House Speaker Mike Johnson and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman signifies a growing recognition of the importance of congressional involvement in shaping AI policy. By engaging in thoughtful discussions and bipartisan collaborations, Congress aims to strike a balance between harnessing the immense potential of AI and mitigating its risks. As the country seeks to lead in AI development, it is crucial to maintain inclusivity and address potential biases embedded in AI systems. Through these efforts, Congress aims to establish a framework that enables the United States to thrive in the age of artificial intelligence.
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