Hey Congress, I had the A.I. do your work for you…

This article is part of an ongoing experiment with the use of ChatGPT for developing primers on cyber security topics.

Title: Artificial Intelligence Ethics and Responsibility Act (AIERA) of 2023

Section 1. Short Title

This Act may be cited as the “Artificial Intelligence Ethics and Responsibility Act of 2023.”

Section 2. Purpose

The purpose of this Act is to create a robust ethical and regulatory framework for the development, implementation, and utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, with the aim of safeguarding individual rights, enhancing transparency, ensuring accountability, and stimulating innovation.

Section 3. Definitions

In this Act:

(a) “Artificial Intelligence (AI)” refers to computational systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence, including but not limited to machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics.

(b) “AI System” refers to an assembly of hardware, software, and data that employs AI technologies.

(c) “AI Developer” refers to any individual, organization, or entity engaged in designing, creating, or modifying AI systems.

(d) “AI Operator” refers to any individual, organization, or entity that deploys, manages, or interacts with AI systems.

Section 4. Ethical Principles for AI Development and Utilization

AI Developers and AI Operators shall adhere to the following ethical principles:

(a) Transparency: Ensure that AI systems are transparent and comprehensible, providing clear information about their purpose, capabilities, limitations, and potential biases.

(b) Accountability: Establish mechanisms to hold AI Developers and AI Operators accountable for the consequences of their AI systems, including compliance with existing laws and regulations.

(c) Privacy and Data Protection: Uphold and safeguard the privacy rights of individuals, complying with relevant data protection laws and minimizing the collection, use, and dissemination of personal data.

(d) Fairness and Non-discrimination: Develop and utilize AI systems in a manner that promotes fairness and non-discrimination, preventing biases and fostering equal opportunities for all individuals.

(e) Safety and Security: Design, create, and employ AI systems with appropriate safety measures to mitigate risks to individuals and society, including potential harm and misuse.

(f) Human Centricity: Prioritize human values, rights, and interests in AI systems, incorporating suitable human oversight mechanisms to monitor and regulate AI systems.

(g) Social and Environmental Responsibility: Encourage the positive impact of AI on society and the environment, while minimizing adverse consequences.

Section 5. AI Developer Responsibilities

AI Developers shall:

(a) Regularly assess AI systems to ensure adherence to the ethical principles outlined in Section 4.

(b) Establish methods for identifying, reporting, and rectifying biases, inaccuracies, and unintended consequences in AI systems.

(c) Engage with stakeholders, including affected communities and experts in relevant fields, to determine potential risks and develop mitigation strategies.

(d) Document the development process of AI systems, including design, training, and evaluation methodologies, to facilitate auditing and accountability.

(e) Disseminate AI research findings, subject to privacy and security considerations, to advance the collective knowledge and development of ethical AI practices.

Section 6. AI Operator Responsibilities

AI Operators shall:

(a) Assess the ethical implications of deploying and utilizing AI systems, considering potential risks and benefits for individuals, communities, and society.

(b) Implement suitable governance structures and processes to ensure the ethical operation of AI systems, incorporating human oversight and regular monitoring.

(c) Educate employees and other relevant stakeholders about the ethical use of AI systems and provide resources for addressing potential ethical concerns.

(d) Establish channels for receiving, investigating, and addressing complaints related to the operation of AI systems.

(e) Disclose the utilization of AI systems transparently, including their purpose, limitations, and potential biases, to foster trust and understanding among stakeholders.

Section 7. AI Governance and Oversight

(a) Establishment of the National AI Ethics and Responsibility Commission (NAIERC):

A federal agency responsible for the development, enforcement, and oversight of ethical and security standards for AI systems, as well as the promotion of public awareness and education on AI ethics and security.

(b) Duties of the NAIERC shall include:

1. Developing and updating guidelines and best practices for ethical and secure AI development and operation.
2. Establishing a certification process for AI systems that comply with the ethical and security standards set forth in this Act.
3. Conducting regular audits and inspections of AI Developers and AI Operators to ensure adherence to ethical and security standards.
4. Investigating and resolving complaints related to ethical and security concerns in AI systems.
5. Collaborating with international organizations and governments to harmonize AI ethics and security standards globally.
6. Promoting public awareness and education on AI ethics and security, as well as fostering dialogue among stakeholders.
7. Facilitating research and development on AI ethics, security, and related technologies.

Section 8. Security Considerations

AI Developers and AI Operators shall:

(a) Implement robust security measures to protect AI systems against unauthorized access, tampering, and cyberattacks, ensuring the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of AI systems and the data they process.

(b) Conduct regular security assessments, including vulnerability and risk assessments, to identify potential threats and weaknesses in AI systems and implement appropriate mitigation strategies.

(c) Develop and maintain incident response plans for addressing security breaches or incidents involving AI systems, ensuring timely notification, investigation, and remediation of such incidents.

(d) Share information on security threats, vulnerabilities, and best practices with the NAIERC and other relevant stakeholders, subject to privacy and confidentiality considerations, to promote collective security and resilience in the AI ecosystem.

(e) Ensure that AI systems are designed with “security by design” principles, incorporating security measures and best practices throughout the development life cycle.

(f) Provide appropriate training and resources to employees and stakeholders to raise awareness of AI security risks, best practices, and incident response procedures.

Section 9. Penalties and Enforcement

(a) The NAIERC shall have the authority to impose penalties, including fines and suspension or revocation of certifications, on AI Developers and AI Operators found to be in violation of the ethical and security standards set forth in this Act.

(b) AI Developers and AI Operators shall have the right to appeal the imposition of penalties by the NAIERC through established legal channels.

Section 10. Effective Date

This Act shall take effect 180 days after its enactment.

Section 11. Severability

If any provision of this Act is found to be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

Section 12. Periodic Review and Amendments

(a) The NAIERC shall periodically review and update the ethical and security standards set forth in this Act to ensure that they remain relevant and responsive to the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

(b) The NAIERC shall consult with relevant stakeholders, including AI Developers, AI Operators, affected communities, experts in the field of AI, ethics, and security, as well as the general public, during the review and amendment process.

(c) Any proposed amendments to the ethical and security standards in this Act shall be submitted to the appropriate legislative body for approval, in accordance with established legal procedures.

Section 13. International Collaboration and Harmonization

(a) The NAIERC shall actively engage with international organizations, foreign governments, and other relevant stakeholders to promote global cooperation and harmonization of AI ethics and security standards.

(b) The NAIERC shall participate in the development of international guidelines, agreements, and treaties related to AI ethics and security, ensuring that the principles and standards set forth in this Act are represented and respected in the global AI community.

Section 14. Public Awareness and Education

(a) The NAIERC shall develop and implement public awareness campaigns to inform and educate the general public about AI ethics and security, as well as their rights and responsibilities in relation to AI systems.

(b) The NAIERC shall collaborate with educational institutions, industry partners, and other relevant stakeholders to develop and promote AI ethics and security education programs, targeting students, professionals, and the general public.

Section 15. Research and Development Support

(a) The NAIERC shall facilitate and support research and development initiatives in the areas of AI ethics, security, and related technologies, with the aim of advancing knowledge and fostering innovation.

(b) The NAIERC shall establish partnerships with academic institutions, research organizations, industry partners, and other relevant stakeholders to promote collaborative research efforts and the sharing of knowledge and resources.

(c) The NAIERC shall provide funding and other forms of support, subject to budgetary and legal constraints, to eligible research projects and initiatives that align with the objectives and priorities set forth in this Act.

Section 16. AI Ethics and Security Advisory Board

(a) The NAIERC shall establish an AI Ethics and Security Advisory Board, comprising experts from various disciplines, including but not limited to AI, ethics, security, law, sociology, and psychology.

(b) The AI Ethics and Security Advisory Board shall:

1. Provide expert advice and guidance to the NAIERC in the development and enforcement of ethical and security standards for AI systems.
2. Evaluate emerging AI technologies and applications, and assess their ethical and security implications.
3. Recommend updates and amendments to the ethical and security standards set forth in this Act, based on the latest research and technological advancements.
4. Assist in the development of public awareness campaigns, educational programs, and research initiatives related to AI ethics and security.

Section 17. Reporting Requirements

(a) The NAIERC shall submit an annual report to the appropriate legislative body, detailing its activities, accomplishments, and challenges during the preceding year.

(b) The annual report shall include:

1. A summary of the audits, inspections, and investigations conducted by the NAIERC, as well as any penalties imposed on AI Developers and AI Operators for violations of this Act.
2. An assessment of the effectiveness of the ethical and security standards set forth in this Act, including any proposed updates or amendments.
3. A summary of the public awareness campaigns, educational programs, and research initiatives supported or implemented by the NAIERC.
4. A review of international collaboration efforts and the status of global harmonization of AI ethics and security standards.
5. Any other relevant information, as determined by the NAIERC.

Section 18. AI Ethics and Security Training Programs

(a) The NAIERC shall develop and promote AI ethics and security training programs for AI Developers, AI Operators, and other relevant stakeholders.

(b) The training programs shall cover topics such as:

1. The ethical principles and security considerations set forth in this Act.
2. Best practices for AI development and operation that align with ethical and security standards.
3. Methods for identifying, assessing, and mitigating ethical and security risks in AI systems.
4. Strategies for incorporating human oversight and values in AI systems.
5. Legal and regulatory compliance requirements related to AI ethics and security.

Section 19. Public Input and Consultation

(a) The NAIERC shall establish mechanisms for soliciting public input and consultation on AI ethics and security matters, ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered in the development and enforcement of the standards set forth in this Act.

(b) Such mechanisms may include, but are not limited to, public hearings, online platforms for submitting comments and feedback, and stakeholder engagement events.

Section 20. Funding

(a) The NAIERC shall receive funding from the federal government, subject to budgetary and legal constraints, to carry out its mandate as outlined in this Act.

(b) The NAIERC may also seek and accept funding from other sources, including grants, donations, and partnerships with private entities, subject to ethical and legal considerations.

Section 21. AI Impact Assessments

(a) AI Developers and AI Operators shall conduct AI Impact Assessments (AIIAs) prior to the development, deployment, or significant modification of AI systems.

(b) The AIIAs shall evaluate the potential ethical, security, social, and environmental impacts of AI systems, as well as identify measures to mitigate risks and promote positive outcomes.

(c) The NAIERC shall develop guidelines and templates for conducting AIIAs, ensuring that AI Developers and AI Operators have a clear and standardized framework for assessing AI systems.

(d) AI Developers and AI Operators shall submit completed AIIAs to the NAIERC for review and approval, in accordance with established procedures and timelines.

Section 22. Whistleblower Protection

(a) The NAIERC shall establish mechanisms for individuals to report potential violations of this Act, or other ethical and security concerns related to AI systems, while maintaining their anonymity and protecting them from retaliation.

(b) The NAIERC shall investigate reported concerns in a timely and thorough manner, taking appropriate enforcement actions when necessary.

(c) Employers shall not retaliate against employees or other stakeholders who, in good faith, report potential violations of this Act or other AI-related ethical and security concerns.

Section 23. Public-Private Partnerships

(a) The NAIERC shall actively engage with private sector entities, including AI Developers, AI Operators, and other relevant stakeholders, to foster collaboration and information sharing on AI ethics and security matters.

(b) Such public-private partnerships may include, but are not limited to, joint research projects, information sharing agreements, capacity-building initiatives, and the development of best practices and guidelines.

Section 24. AI Ethics and Security Awareness Month

(a) The NAIERC shall designate one month each year as “AI Ethics and Security Awareness Month,” with the aim of raising public awareness and promoting education on AI ethics and security issues.

(b) During AI Ethics and Security Awareness Month, the NAIERC shall organize and support various events and initiatives, such as workshops, seminars, panel discussions, and online campaigns, to engage the public and various stakeholders in discussions about AI ethics and security.

Section 25. Future Amendments and Sunset Clause

(a) This Act shall be subject to review and potential amendment every five years, to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness in addressing the ethical and security challenges posed by AI technologies.

(b) If, upon review, the legislative body determines that this Act is no longer necessary or effective, it may enact a sunset clause, causing the Act to expire on a specified date.

Section 26. Implementation

The provisions of this Act shall be implemented by the relevant federal agencies, in coordination with the NAIERC and other stakeholders, in accordance with established legal procedures and timelines.

Section 27. AI Liability and Insurance

(a) AI Developers and AI Operators shall be held responsible for any harm or damages caused by the AI systems they develop or operate, subject to the principles of liability established by applicable laws and regulations.

(b) The NAIERC, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, shall develop guidelines for determining liability in cases involving AI systems, taking into consideration factors such as the level of human involvement, the foreseeability of the harm, and the extent to which the AI system deviated from its intended purpose.

(c) AI Developers and AI Operators shall maintain appropriate liability insurance coverage for the AI systems they develop or operate, to ensure that affected parties can be adequately compensated for any harm or damages caused by the AI systems.

Section 28. AI in Critical Infrastructure

(a) The NAIERC shall develop specific guidelines and standards for the use of AI systems in critical infrastructure sectors, such as energy, transportation, healthcare, and telecommunications, taking into account the heightened risks and potential consequences of AI-related failures or attacks in these sectors.

(b) AI Developers and AI Operators involved in critical infrastructure sectors shall adhere to the additional guidelines and standards established by the NAIERC, in addition to the general ethical and security standards set forth in this Act.

Section 29. AI Workforce Development

(a) The NAIERC shall collaborate with educational institutions, industry partners, and other relevant stakeholders to develop and promote workforce development programs that address the growing demand for AI professionals with expertise in ethics, security, and related fields.

(b) Such workforce development programs may include, but are not limited to, specialized degree programs, vocational training, internships, apprenticeships, and continuing education opportunities.

Section 30. AI in Public Services

(a) The NAIERC shall develop guidelines and best practices for the ethical and secure use of AI systems in the delivery of public services, ensuring that AI technologies are deployed in a manner that is transparent, accountable, and respects the rights and interests of the public.

(b) Government agencies that utilize AI systems in the delivery of public services shall adhere to the guidelines and best practices established by the NAIERC, in addition to the general ethical and security standards set forth in this Act.

Section 31. AI and Human Rights

(a) The NAIERC shall ensure that the ethical and security standards set forth in this Act are consistent with and promote the protection of human rights, as enshrined in national and international human rights laws and instruments.

(b) The NAIERC shall collaborate with human rights organizations, experts, and other relevant stakeholders to monitor the impact of AI technologies on human rights and develop strategies for addressing and preventing human rights violations related to AI systems.

Section 32. AI and Children

(a) The NAIERC shall develop specific guidelines and standards for the ethical and secure use of AI systems that involve or affect children, taking into account the unique vulnerabilities and needs of children in relation to AI technologies.

(b) AI Developers and AI Operators that develop or operate AI systems involving or affecting children shall adhere to the additional guidelines and standards established by the NAIERC, in addition to the general ethical and security standards set forth in this Act.

Section 33. AI and Accessibility

(a) The NAIERC shall develop guidelines and best practices to ensure that AI systems are designed, developed, and operated in a manner that is accessible to individuals with disabilities, promoting digital inclusion and equitable access to AI technologies.

(b) AI Developers and AI Operators shall adhere to the accessibility guidelines and best practices established by the NAIERC, ensuring that AI systems are compatible with assistive technologies and can be used by individuals with diverse abilities and needs.

Section 34. AI and Data Privacy

(a) The NAIERC shall collaborate with relevant data protection authorities to ensure that the ethical and security standards set forth in this Act are consistent with and promote the protection of data privacy rights, as enshrined in applicable data protection laws and regulations.

(b) AI Developers and AI Operators shall adhere to applicable data protection laws and regulations, ensuring that AI systems process personal data in a manner that respects individuals’ privacy rights and complies with legal requirements related to data collection, processing, storage, and sharing.

Section 35. AI and the Environment

(a) The NAIERC shall develop guidelines and best practices for minimizing the environmental impact of AI systems, including energy consumption, resource use, and waste generation.

(b) AI Developers and AI Operators shall adhere to the environmental guidelines and best practices established by the NAIERC, implementing strategies and technologies to reduce the environmental footprint of AI systems and promote sustainability.

Section 36. AI and Intellectual Property Rights

(a) The NAIERC shall collaborate with relevant intellectual property authorities to address the unique challenges and opportunities presented by AI technologies in the context of intellectual property rights, such as copyright, patents, and trade secrets.

(b) AI Developers and AI Operators shall respect and protect the intellectual property rights of others when developing and operating AI systems, ensuring that AI technologies do not infringe upon the rights of creators, inventors, and other stakeholders.

Section 37. AI and Inclusivity

(a) The NAIERC shall promote the development and use of AI systems that are inclusive, representative, and respectful of diverse cultures, languages, and perspectives, ensuring that AI technologies do not perpetuate discrimination, bias, or marginalization.

(b) AI Developers and AI Operators shall adopt strategies and practices to ensure that AI systems are developed and operated in a manner that is inclusive and representative, such as by utilizing diverse training data, engaging with diverse stakeholders, and incorporating diverse perspectives in the design and evaluation of AI systems.

Section 38. AI and Disinformation

(a) The NAIERC shall develop guidelines and best practices for addressing the risks and challenges posed by AI-enabled disinformation and misinformation, such as deepfakes and synthetic media.

(b) AI Developers and AI Operators shall adhere to the guidelines and best practices established by the NAIERC, ensuring that AI technologies are not used to create, disseminate, or amplify disinformation or misinformation that may undermine public trust, compromise safety, or violate legal and ethical standards.

Section 39. AI and Public Safety

(a) The NAIERC shall develop guidelines and best practices for ensuring that AI systems are developed and operated in a manner that prioritizes public safety, taking into consideration the potential risks and unintended consequences of AI technologies.

(b) AI Developers and AI Operators shall adhere to the public safety guidelines and best practices established by the NAIERC, ensuring that AI systems do not pose unnecessary risks or hazards to individuals, communities, or the environment.

Section 40. AI and Employment

(a) The NAIERC shall collaborate with relevant labor authorities, industry partners, and other stakeholders to assess and address the potential impacts of AI technologies on employment, such as job displacement, skill gaps, and changes in labor market demands.

(b) The NAIERC shall develop and promote strategies for mitigating the negative impacts of AI technologies on employment, such as reskilling programs, workforce development initiatives, and social safety nets.

Section 41. AI and Fair Competition

(a) The NAIERC shall collaborate with relevant competition authorities to ensure that the development, deployment, and operation of AI systems are consistent with the principles of fair competition and do not result in anticompetitive practices, market concentration, or other negative economic outcomes.

(b) AI Developers and AI Operators shall adhere to applicable competition laws and regulations, ensuring that AI technologies do not undermine fair competition or compromise the integrity of markets and industries.

Section 42. AI and National Security

(a) The NAIERC shall collaborate with relevant national security agencies to assess and address the potential risks and challenges posed by AI technologies in the context of national security, such as cybersecurity threats, autonomous weapons, and espionage.

(b) The NAIERC shall develop guidelines and best practices for the ethical and secure use of AI technologies in national security contexts, ensuring that AI systems are developed, deployed, and operated in a manner that is consistent with national security interests and respects international norms and agreements.

Section 43. AI and Democracy

(a) The NAIERC shall collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including election authorities, political institutions, and civil society organizations, to assess and address the potential impacts of AI technologies on democratic processes, such as voting, political campaigns, and public discourse.

(b) The NAIERC shall develop guidelines and best practices for the ethical and secure use of AI technologies in democratic contexts, ensuring that AI systems do not undermine democratic values, compromise electoral integrity, or violate the rights and interests of citizens.

Section 44. AI and Transparency

(a) The NAIERC shall promote transparency in the development, deployment, and operation of AI systems, ensuring that AI Developers and AI Operators provide clear, accessible, and meaningful information about the AI technologies they use, the data they process, and the decisions they make.

(b) AI Developers and AI Operators shall adhere to the transparency guidelines and best practices established by the NAIERC, implementing strategies and technologies to make AI systems more understandable, explainable, and accountable to users and affected parties.

Section 45. AI and Accountability

(a) The NAIERC shall develop guidelines and best practices for ensuring that AI Developers and AI Operators are held accountable for the ethical and security performance of the AI systems they develop or operate, as well as for any harm or damages caused by the AI systems.

(b) AI Developers and AI Operators shall implement mechanisms for monitoring, evaluating, and reporting on the ethical and security performance of AI systems, ensuring that they take responsibility for their AI systems and address any issues or concerns that may arise.

Section 46. Effective Date

This Act shall take effect on [Date], providing sufficient time for relevant federal agencies, AI Developers, AI Operators, and other stakeholders to prepare for and implement the provisions of this Act.

Krypt3ia generated this text with ChatGPT, OpenAI’s large-scale language-generation model. This author reviewed, edited, and revised the language to my own liking and takes ultimate responsibility for the content of this publication.