The White House’s National Science and Technology Council has released a report on current and potential applications of artificial intelligence as well as public policy issues related to AI.
NSTC said in the report published Wednesday that investments by both public and private sectors in AI-related research and development programs have begun to benefit the public in the areas of healthcare, economy, transportation, criminal justice and the environment.
The document also tackles regulatory challenges associated with AI-based unmanned aircraft and self-driving cars and the U.S. Transportation Department’s efforts to collaborate with industry and civil society to develop new regulations that seek to ensure safe operation of AI-equipped drones and automated vehicles.
NSTC also cites policy questions about the application of AI in international relations and security, such as its role in weapon systems as well as offensive and defensive cybersecurity measures.
The report also recommends that AI practitioners and students should undergo ethical training and use technical tools in an effort to ensure fairness and address safety concerns linked to AI adoption.
Other topics cited by NSTC include the strategic plan for federally funded R&D work on AI, integration of AI education with federal science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education initiatives, automation of tasks and other economic impacts of AI as well as the U.S. government’s role in the development of public policy tools and agenda for public debate.
