The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a government-wide policy to manage the risks associated with Artificial Intelligence (AI) while maximizing its benefits. This policy, part of President Biden's Executive Order 14110 on AI, is structured around three main objectives: establishing transparent AI governance systems, mitigating AI-related risks, and advancing responsible innovation. Federal agencies must proactively address AI risks by implementing a series of safeguards by December 1, 2024.
Key elements of this policy include:
- Designating Chief AI Officers (CAIOs): Within 60 days of the OMB memorandum issuance to federal agencies, these agencies are required to designate CAIOs responsible for overseeing AI implementation. These officers play a crucial role in coordinating AI efforts, fostering innovation, and managing risks within their respective agencies.
- Convening Agency AI Governance Bodies: Agencies must establish Agency AI Governance Bodies within 60 days to facilitate coordinated efforts and decision-making regarding AI use.
- Developing Compliance Plans: Every two years, agencies must develop Compliance Plans aligned with AI guidelines to ensure adherence to legal and policy frameworks.
- Conducting AI Use Case Inventories: Annual inventories of AI use cases are mandatory to identify potential impacts on safety and rights, enabling agencies to mitigate risks effectively.
- Reporting on AI Use Cases: Agencies are required to annually report on AI use cases, including those not captured in the inventory, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Defining Roles and Responsibilities of CAIOs: The policy outlines the roles, responsibilities, seniority, position, and reporting structure of CAIOs, emphasizing their coordination, innovation, and risk management roles.
- Establishing Internal Agency AI Coordination Mechanisms: This includes the creation of AI Governance Boards to oversee AI initiatives and ensure alignment with agency objectives.
- Advancing Responsible AI Innovation: Agencies are tasked with developing AI strategies, removing barriers to AI use, and promoting AI applications for public good and societal challenges.
