Why the U. S. is Racing Ahead in AI
Michael Kratsios, leading the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), recently addressed a House hearing to discuss the U.S. government's focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and its plans to maintain a leading position in the global AI race.
Key Initiatives
Kratsios highlighted two major initiatives:
- "Winning the AI Race: America's AI Action Plan"
- The Genesis Mission
The Genesis Mission
- Aims to accelerate scientific research by integrating data from multiple government agencies.
- Kratsios believes this approach can significantly reduce research time.
- Plans to involve international partners in the program.
Expanding AI Talent
The OSTP is prioritizing the expansion of AI talent in both the workforce and schools:
- U.S. Tech Force Initiative
- Aims to bring AI specialists into the public sector.
- 35,000 people have expressed interest so far.
- White House's AI Education Task Force
- Focuses on teaching AI literacy in K-12 schools.
- Over 200 companies and organizations are providing free resources.
Concerns and Criticisms
During the hearing, concerns were raised about the potential misuse of AI, such as generating nonconsensual sexual images. Kratsios responded by emphasizing the need for effective organizational structures to deliver results for everyday Americans.
Representative Zoe Lofgren criticized a recent executive order directing the Department of Justice to sue states over certain AI laws, arguing that it is unconstitutional. Kratsios, however, believes that forcing entrepreneurs to comply with different sets of AI rules in each state is anti-innovation. He is tasked with developing a sensible national policy framework for AI.
