In the past years, there have been rapid advancements in generative artificial intelligence, and as of February 2024, more than 70 bills relating to AI regulations and government oversight have been introduced to Congress, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.
The federal government should pass the proposed generative AI oversight laws as soon as possible to ensure that new AI technologies are developed safely and ethically.
While some AI companies argue that interference from the government will limit their ability to innovate, having ethical safeguards will increase public trust in those businesses, which benefits them in the long run.
Generative AI models are trained on large data sets that sometimes contain sensitive information, so new policies and regulations are needed to avoid privacy violations.
AI can also be used to facilitate voter suppression; a deepfake of President Joe Biden’s voice spread disinformation and urged New Hampshire citizens to avoid casting votes in the primaries, and new legislation will help prevent these situations from occurring.
Every technological advancement comes with risks, and generative AI has dangerous implications if exploited for nefarious purposes. Government regulations are a step in the right direction to a future where the potential of artificial intelligence is maximized for the benefit of society while minimizing the risks of harm from improper development or use.