AI, Government and the Future

Happy Holidays!

Author

Corner Alliance
December 26, 2024

Welcome to our weekly dive into the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on the U.S. Government!

AI is progressing at an incredible pace, and we're just scratching the surface. With so much information out there, it can be overwhelming to keep up.

We're here to provide you with insightful analysis and a concise summary, delivered to you on a regular basis. Stay informed, stay up-to-date, and join us on this thrilling journey into the future of AI.

Episode 33 Recap: Lennart Heim Research Fellow at Centre for the Governance of AI

Lennart Heim joins this episode of AI, Government, and the Future, exploring the complex landscape of AI compute governance. Lennart leads GovAI's compute governance work, exploring how computational resources influence the trajectory of AI development. The conversation covers the exponential growth in AI computing power, international frameworks for governing compute resources, and the challenges in balancing innovation and security innovation.

Click the links below: 

Spotlight

Energy Prioritizes Information Sharing  

The Biden administration may face a significant challenge from Project DOGE, a Trump transition initiative reportedly led by Elon Musk with around 40 engineers near Lafayette Square. According to recent discussions, DOGE is likely developing AI systems to analyze complex government regulations and spending, a capability absent in previous reform commissions. This could create an unprecedented "asymmetry of understanding" between the executive branch and Congress, which has taken a more conservative approach to AI adoption, currently limiting staff to ChatGPT Plus usage. The situation may test the Impoundment Control Act of 1974, which requires the executive branch to spend according to Congressional appropriations. When DOGE launches on January 21st, it could potentially create a significant speed and capability gap within government operations. 

The Number 

$3.8 Million 

Washington, D.C. plans to spend $3.8 million on high-speed internet and digital education services to bridge the digital divide. This funding, made available through the infrastructure bill, will help low-income communities access reliable internet service. The city's digital equity plan includes partnerships with government, academia, and community organizations to distribute devices and provide digital literacy training. The goal is to ensure every resident can fully participate in the digital economy.

In-Depth 

Safeguarding the AI Data Pipeline with Confidential AI

Confidential AI is emerging as a critical solution for federal agencies seeking to leverage the benefits of AI while adhering to stringent security, privacy, and compliance standards. As generative AI and large language models (LLMs) drive efficiency, they also heighten risks of data exposure and intellectual property theft, especially in environments handling sensitive or classified information. Confidential AI mitigates these risks by securing data throughout its lifecycle. It employs encryption, authentication, and cryptographic attestation to establish trusted execution environments. With applications in defense, healthcare, and emergency response, it safeguards AI models and data while driving mission-critical performance enhancements. By integrating confidential AI, agencies can innovate securely and optimize operations for high-impact outcomes.

House AI Task Force Set to Release Report Next Week

A forthcoming report from the House AI Task Force will advocate for incremental, application-specific AI regulation and federal preemption to balance innovation with safety, according to Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.) He emphasizes the importance of a tailored, phased approach over sweeping legislation, arguing that federal preemption is essential to avoid a fragmented regulatory landscape that could hinder innovation. The report will also explore the AI Safety Institute’s (AISI) role in establishing international standards and supporting sector-specific AI regulations. Rep. Zach Nunn (R-Iowa) highlighted the need for internal federal alignment before imposing regulations on private industry. Designed as a foundational guide for evolving AI policy, the report is expected to influence future decisions. Additionally, Obernotle anticipates the Trump administration revisiting aspects of President Biden’s AI executive order, retaining key provisions while curbing federal overreach.