U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Thom Tillis have introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at ensuring the federal government’s purchase and use of artificial intelligence (AI) systems are both safe and responsible. The bill, known as the Promoting Responsible Evaluation and Procurement to Advance Readiness for Enterprise-wide Deployment (PREPARED) for AI Act, sets forth a framework for federal agencies to harness the potential of AI while mitigating associated risks and harms.
As federal agencies increase their adoption of AI technologies, there is a pressing need for standards and safeguards to ensure the technology’s safe, secure, and trustworthy use. The PREPARED for AI Act mandates that agencies assess and address the risks associated with AI before purchasing and deploying these systems. Additionally, it introduces pilot programs to test more flexible and competitive purchasing practices, aiming to maximize the benefits of AI for the American public.
“Artificial intelligence has the power to reshape how the federal government provides services to the American people for the better, but if left unchecked, it can pose serious risks,” stated Senator Peters. “These guardrails will help guide federal agencies’ responsible adoption and use of AI tools and ensure that systems paid for by taxpayers are being used safely and securely.”
Senator Tillis emphasized the need for a robust framework, noting, “As the role of artificial intelligence in the public and private sectors continues to grow, it is crucial federal agencies have a robust framework for procuring and implementing AI safely and effectively. This legislation mandates clear guidelines for federal agencies and provides them with the tools to successfully navigate future advancements in artificial intelligence.”
The federal government’s use of AI is expanding, with systems already in place to interact with and make decisions about the public. While AI can enhance government efficiency, improper deployment poses significant risks. The PREPARED for AI Act requires agencies to classify the risk levels of their AI uses, focusing on protecting public rights and safety. Contracts for AI capabilities must include terms addressing data ownership, civil rights, civil liberties, privacy, and adverse incident reporting. Agencies must also identify, test, and monitor potential risks before, during, and after purchasing AI tools, including ongoing testing and evaluation to mitigate risks.
The bill mandates the establishment of AI governance structures within agencies, such as appointing Chief AI Officers to lead and coordinate procurement efforts. Pilot programs will streamline AI and commercial technology procurement, fostering innovative adoption. Key provisions also encourage transparency through public disclosures and reporting of the government’s AI use.
The PREPARED for AI Act has garnered support from various organizations, including the Center for Democracy and Technology, Transparency Coalition, AI Procurement Lab, and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE-USA). Alexandra Reeve Givens, President & CEO of the Center for Democracy & Technology, praised the bill for its emphasis on transparency and risk evaluation, stating, “The bipartisan PREPARED for AI Act lays a strong foundation by codifying transparency, risk evaluation, and other safeguards that will help agencies make smarter and more informed procurement decisions.”
Rob Eleveld, Chairman of the Transparency Coalition, highlighted the bill’s balance between protecting data privacy and encouraging innovation, growth, and competition. Gisele Waters, Ph.D., and Dr. Cari Miller, Co-Founders of the AI Procurement Lab, noted the importance of the bill in addressing government challenges related to AI transparency and oversight. IEEE-USA President Keith Moore emphasized that the bill’s standards provide the best path forward to mitigate potential AI harms. Despite the early praise for the PREPARED for AI Act, the text of the bill has yet to be released.
Need Help?
Keeping track of the everchanging AI landscape can be tough, especially if you have questions and concerns about how it will impact you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to BABL AI. Their Audit Experts are ready to provide valuable assistance.
