The Congressional Black Caucus has launched a new artificial intelligence policy series that focuses on the potential of AI systems to discriminate against marginalized Black communities in the United States.
Reflecting the broader federal mandate to harness the benefits of AI systems while controlling the potential problems of introducing more generative technologies, CBC members have identified the specific impacts AI systems have on Black communities. will focus on the potential for AI algorithms to further propagate bias. And discrimination.
“Given the rapid emergence of new AI technologies, we are committed to the communities we serve by leading trends that have a significant impact on the lives and livelihoods of the populations we serve. We have an obligation to stand up and take action,” said Congressman Stephen, Chairman of the CBC. Horsford, D-Neverland, said at a news conference Wednesday.
Horsford said the series will launch “in the coming weeks” and will feature public policy leaders and focus on bringing equity and inclusivity to both access to AI technology and its capabilities. acknowledged.
One such focus will be on economic opportunities for Black Americans, particularly algorithmic decision-making around discrimination related to housing, health care, and economic opportunity.
The goal of this session is to educate CBC members and Congress in advance of passing formal legislation to regulate AI systems.
“We hope that each session centered on this discussion of important aspects of AI and its impact on Black America will inform legislation here in Washington, D.C.,” said Congresswoman Yvette Clark. DN.Y) said at Wednesday’s meeting. Briefing session. “There is no question that the many harms and concerns that affect the lives of Black people in America require federal legislative solutions.”
Beyond Capitol Hill, Horsford said the CBC aims to inform decisions made within federal agencies and the private sector, with perspectives outlined in its artificial intelligence policy series. added.
“This Congress is working with the administration to close the racial wealth gap, advance policies, and ensure racial equity is at the center of the work we do.” Horsford said. “And whether it’s AI or any other sector, we have both opportunities to ensure community participation, but also to ensure there are protections and guardrails to ensure that any challenges or impacts are met. We know we have to have an opportunity – we know there will be repercussions if we don’t deal with it proactively from a negative policy perspective.”
Sen. Cory Booker (D.N.J.) similarly touched on the need to monitor AI systems from a civil rights and discrimination perspective. In the Axios discussion, Booker emphasized the need for scrutiny of algorithmic decision-making and the impact on Black communities.
“Given the transformative impact that AI will have, we as policymakers must especially ask questions about its impact on diverse nations,” Booker said Wednesday. “will” [this] Can it help us become better in a multicultural democracy? Or will it only exacerbate division and disadvantage? ”
