BSA-The Software Alliance has released a policy agenda based on building trust in artificial intelligence and encouraging its adoption, “namely through passing laws related to bias and discrimination risks of AI.”
“Members of Congress, the Biden administration, and state lawmakers devoted the past year to learning more about AI and its potential for profound impact for our economy and society,” Craig Albright, BSA’s senior vice president for U.S. government relations, said in a statement. “BSA’s 2024 agenda shows how US officials can now act: by further advancing guardrails that build trust in AI and encourage its adoption, and by streamlining rules to make sure the government itself can utilize AI, cloud services, and other technology to better deliver services.”
The 2024 BSA policy agenda was released on Feb. 5 and is grounded in the concept of “digital transformation,” which the trade group calls “the process by which organizations harness the capabilities of artificial intelligence and enterprise software to add new value to their businesses, employees, customers, and communities.”
The software group’s agenda focuses on:
- Trustworthy AI: Supporting legislation that requires impact assessments for high-risk uses of AI
- Strong data privacy: Passing a clear and modern national privacy law to ensure consistent and high privacy standards
- Smart and effective cybersecurity: Securing critical infrastructure, enterprise technology, and consumer products through harmonized policies across government
- Robust digital trade: Strong, enforceable digital trade rules that supports job creation and the ability to move data across borders
- Modernizing government IT: Establishing requirements for commercial and technology-neutral solutions will empower governments to meet the needs of their citizens, while taking advantage of new technologies.
BSA lists a total of 10 priorities for the year, including inclusive economic opportunity, addressing harmful online content, “resetting” immigration policy, protecting intellectual property, and addressing law enforcement access to data.
It says, “Congress should pass legislation that protects consumers, including through requiring impact assessments for high-risk uses of AI.”