The U.S. House Task Force on Artificial Intelligence has released its report on artificial intelligence following nearly a year of meetings and discussions with over 100 experts in the field. The task force, which included 12 Democrats and 12 Republicans, was charged with compiling a comprehensive "road map" for Congress to implement safeguards against artificial intelligence misuse and boost the development of artificial intelligence technology in the United States. "Artificial intelligence has the potential to enhance the lives of Americans, but it also poses serious threats – from fraud and identity theft to election integrity and more," said Colorado’s Democratic U.S. Rep. Brittany Pettersen, who sat on the task force. "After months of bipartisan collaboration, I’m proud to help release this report which will serve as a blueprint for Congress to enact policies that help harness the potential of this emerging technology while ensuring strong guardrails and consumer protections,” Pettersen said. “This report is an important step toward ensuring Congress meets the moment and the United States remains a global leader in AI." The 253-page report includes 66 key findings and 85 recommendations but does not propose any specific legislative measures. The task force adopted seven guiding principles when compiling the report that include: The task force investigated the use of AI in 15 areas, including government use, data privacy, national security, and intellectual property. Government Use The report encourages the federal government and Congress to be "wary" of algorithm-informed decision-making in government affairs. In addition, task force members recommended adopting AI standards for federal government use and improving cybersecurity of federal systems to protect against AI's negative impacts. "Irresponsible or improper use [of AI] fosters risks to individual privacy, security, and the fair and equal treatment of all citizens by their government," the report stated. Federal Preemption of State Law Several states, including Colorado, have passed legislation related to AI. According to the task force, the federal government can use these state-level statutes as a tool to "accomplish various objectives." However, "federal preemption presents complex legal and policy issues that should be considered." The report found that federal preemption has both positive and negative aspects and that it can allow states to be subject to certain limits on regulation. The task force recommended the federal government study the laws, rules, and regulations in each state when it comes to AI in different industries. Data Privacy "As AI systems amass and analyze vast amounts of data, there are increasing risks of private information being accessed without authorization," the report stated. "Thoughtful and effective data privacy policies and protections will support consumer confidence in the responsible development and deployment of AI systems." Currently, Americans have very few avenues for recourse if their privacy is negatively impacted by AI, but federal privacy laws have the potential to increase the effectiveness of state laws related to AI and data privacy. The task force recommended exploring ways to promote access to data in "privacy-enhanced" ways while ensuring any privacy laws that come out of Congress are "generally applicable and technology-neutral" to cover all forms of AI, current and future. National Security With many countries, including US adversaries, incorporating AI technology into their military programs, it's crucial for the American military to have a thorough understanding of different AI systems and implement them in its defense strategy, the report stated. The report called for expanded AI training within the Department of Defense continued oversight of autonomous weapons policies, and international collaboration with American allies on developing AI for military use. Research, Development, and Standards The task force recommends that Congress implement an open research environment in which research processes and data are accessible to all entities to maintain the U.S.'s status as a leader in AI research and development. The report found that further investments in AI research and development will increase competitiveness with American adversaries such as China and expand access to and adoption of AI technology among Americans. The report also called for promoting public-private partnerships for AI research and development and implementing standards for the evaluation and testing of AI technology. Civil Rights & Civil Liberties "AI models, and software systems more generally, can produce misleading or inaccurate outputs" that can deprive Americans of their basic rights, the report stated. The task force found that the federal government must understand the potential harm misleading or inaccurate AI systems can pose to mitigate potential rights violations. The report recommended always having a human available to identify and remedy potential flaws when AI is being used in "highly consequential" decisions and informing users when AI is being used in situations where decisions are being made to protect against discrimination. Education and Workforce According to the report, the U.S. has a "significant gap" in its workforce of AI-literate professionals, which is only growing. "Educating and training American learners in AI topics will be critical to continued U.S. leadership in AI technology and for America’s economic and national security," the report stated. As AI becomes increasingly common in the workplace, the task force recommended that the government invest in K-12 STEM and AI education to promote AI literacy and broaden pathways to the AI workforce. At the same time, the government should monitor labor laws and worker protections to ensure workers are not being taken advantage of when it comes to AI adoption in the workplace. Intellectual Property Generative AI has sparked widespread debates about intellectual property rights for creatives such as artists, musicians, and designers. "Generative AI poses a unique challenge to the creative community," the report stated, adding that creators are often unaware AI developers are using their work. The report recommends clarifying IP laws, regulations, and agency activity to better inform the legal community about what is and isn't legal and counter the increasing use of deepfakes to harm others. Content Authenticity When tackling inauthentic content such as deepfakes, the task force recommended a "risk-based, multipronged approach" in which the responsibilities of AI developers, content producers, and content distributors are clearly outlined. While the report found that synthetic content "has many beneficial uses," it can also harm individuals and create a sense of distrust among users. The report recommended ensuring victims of harmful synthetic content have access to tools and resources they may need for support. Open & Closed Systems The report also discussed open and closed AI systems. In an open system, an AI model's underlying code and data are publicly accessible. They can be built upon, while a closed system is only available to the developers. The report found that open models encourage innovation and competition among AI developers and that "limited evidence" exists that open models should be restricted. Despite this, the task force recommended the federal government continue monitoring open-source models for potential risks. Energy Usage & Data Centers The electrical grid has been significantly impacted by the advancement of AI technology, particularly due to large data centers with high energy demands. While the report found AI to be "critical" to U.S. economic interests and national security, it poses a multitude of challenges to the country's energy sector. "Planning properly now for new power generation and transmission is critical for AI innovation and adoption," the report stated, adding that AI itself can play a role in modernizing America's energy sector. Small Business Many small businesses lack the understanding and financial resources to implement AI, the report found. Providing them with education and resources to improve AI literacy is essential in order to help small businesses thrive, the task force stated, advocating for the federal government to reduce "compliance burdens" for small businesses that operate with the assistance of AI. Agriculture According to the report, AI technology has the potential to change the agriculture industry, increasing food availability, lowering food prices, and encouraging economic growth. Because many agricultural communities lack reliable internet connection, AI adoption in the agriculture industry has been slow, the report stated. However, increased AI use by the USDA could help provide more agriculture programs to American communities and reduce costs for farmers and ranchers. The report recommended the federal government direct the USDA to "better utilize" AI in program delivery and continue to explore how AI technology could help land managers improve forest health. Health Care AI has the potential to make significant improvements to the American healthcare system by improving diagnostic accuracy, streamlining operations. speeding up drug development and automating routine tasks, the report found. However, there currently aren't any uniform standards for medical data when it comes to AI, which makes it difficult for advancements to be made. The task force recommended the government "maintain robust support" for medical research related to AI and create incentives and guidance to encourage risk management of AI technologies in the healthcare sector, as well as developing uniform standards for liability related to AI issues. Financial Services According to the report, the financial services industry has been using AI technology for decades. "The ideal environment for continued growth would allow AI innovation to thrive while protecting consumers and maintaining market integrity," the task force wrote. "By focusing on fostering innovation, enhancing customer experiences, and ensuring financial inclusion, AI can significantly improve the financial sector's efficiency and accessibility." While AI has the potential to expand access to financial products and services, smaller firms may be at a disadvantage due to financial barriers to adopting AI. The report recommends fostering an environment where financial services firms can "responsibly" adopt AI technology and encourage industry regulators to gain a better understanding of AI while suggesting a "principles-based" regulatory approach. 'I don't want a future where China's leading on AI': Pettersen on the role AI plays in US government In an interview with Colorado Politics , Pettersen said the United States is in a race against China when it comes to crafting AI policy, and she's afraid China could win. "I really worry about areas like this where we need to be leading the way globally and making sure that China is not the one doing that,” Pettersen said. “I don’t want a future where China’s leading on AI. It needs to be the United States, and we have to come together in Congress to bring comprehensive, pragmatic, bipartisan solutions. It cannot matter (which party) has the majority. This needs to continue to be a bipartisan effort." Pettersen said she is confident artificial intelligence will remain a priority in the Trump administration but admitted that the Task Force on Artificial Intelligence faced some obstacles due to a "dysfunctional congress" and election season. However, she and other Colorado members of Congress agree that federal legislation on artificial intelligence is far more effective than "patchwork" measures passed at the state level. AI legislation in Colorado During the 2024 legislative session, Colorado passed a first-of-its-kind law that aims to address "algorithmic discrimination", defined in statute as any condition in which AI increases the risk of "unlawful differential treatment" that then "disfavors" an individual or group of people on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, genetic information, race, religion, veteran status, English proficiency and other classes protected by state laws. Gov. Jared Polis has tasked Attorney General Phil Weiser with creating audit policies and identifying high-risk artificial intelligence practices to ensure the law is effectively implemented. The measure's prime sponsor, Sen. Robert Rodriguez, D-Denver, has promised to amend it during the 2025 legislative session to minimize any unintended consequences. Thelma Grimes contributed to this story.Kelly Loeffler Expected As Trump's Agricultural Secretary Pick—After Spending Millions To Help Him Get Elected
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Three years ago, Vancouver’s John Phillip Fraser was struggling to rebuild his life after falling on hard times. After securing an entry-level job at a local construction company, he faced a hurdle: the only boots he could afford were worn hand-me-downs. “There were holes in the soles,” said the 39-year-old, who immigrated to Canada from Venezuela as a child and settled in the Downtown Eastside. “My feet were always soaked and smelled like mould.” Fraser pressed on, despite his work boots being a constant reminder of his struggle. Then he heard about Working Gear, a charity dedicated to providing clothing and equipment for those who need proper workwear. Fraser visited the non-profit’s pantry, where he was welcomed by executive director Sarah Beley and outfitted with new steel-toed boots and gear donated by workwear companies such as Red Wing, Keen and Fiber. “Having clean boots and proper PPE (personal protective equipment) improved my performance, and soon after I was hired by an excavation company offering higher pay,” he said. Since then, Fraser has secured permanent housing and explored other career opportunities. “Because of this experience, I know that I will never again be that close to poverty.” Fraser’s story is one of many in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, where low-income individuals and newcomers can face barriers to employment. Beley said that due to growing demand, Working Gear, which began in 2007 as a small, volunteer-driven initiative to help residents of the DTES, has evolved to support low-income workers, immigrants and refugees throughout Metro Vancouver. Of the approximately 1,700 people served this year, Beley said 40 per cent reside outside Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. She added that over the last two years, Working Gear has seen a significant shift in its client base: newcomers now account for 66 per cent of clients, compared to 14 per cent previously. Clients used to require referrals from social service agencies, but many of them now walk into the shop after hearing about the organization from friends. “The one thing in common with all of our clients is they don’t have family or a community around,” Beley said. “Whether a youth who has aged out of foster care, a person who just got out of prison, or a newcomer from Ukraine or Africa, they just don’t have that support.” This was the case for Stephen Sijenyi, who immigrated to Vancouver and sought help from Working Gear in 2018. “I went from Kenya, where I was celebrated by a large group of family and friends, to feeling like I wasn’t trusted by others in Canada — whether because of my clothes or my immigrant status,” the 42-year-old said. “I didn’t have friends, I didn’t have anyone who I could turn to and ask for help.” Sijenyi needed work and safety gear, including steel-toe boots and waterproof pants for his first job as a labourer at a coffee recycling plant. “When I walked in, I went from facing adversity to being welcomed with open arms — it felt like family,” said Sijenyi, who made some of his first Vancouver friends at the organization. Five years later, Sijenyi owns his own business, has two children, and a large network of friends he considers family. He regularly returns to the organization as one of 60 volunteers who are mostly former clients. “I couldn’t be living the life I am today without them.” sgrochowski@postmedia.com • For 106 years, The Province’s Empty Stocking Fund has been dedicated to making the holidays brighter for B.C. residents who are less fortunate. With the generosity of our readers and supporters, the fund gives money to 25 B.C. community organizations that provide food hampers and gifts to children, needy families and single people. Donations can be made by: Scan the QR code here. Online at: https://theprovince.com/esf By mail to: The Province Empty Stocking Fund 968 East Cordova St., Vancouver, B.C., V6A 1M6 By calling: 604-253-6911
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DALLAS — If “better health for my hockey team” was among Minnesota Wild coach John Hynes’ holiday wishes, he instead got a notable lump of coal in his stocking before the team plane had even left the ground at MSP on Friday morning. The seat on the charter aircraft normally occupied by Wild star forward Kirill Kaprizov was empty when the rest of the squad took off for Texas. He was unavailable for the Friday evening game versus the Stars with a lower-body injury that has been a problem for a few days now, Hynes said. “He was a little sore, I think, going into the break, and then we talked with the doctors and stuff yesterday,” the coach said following the team’s morning skate at American Airlines Center. “Right now, as far as I know, it’s day-to-day ... then we’ll see how he’s feeling each day moving forward here.” Hynes added that the absence is not related to the knee-on-knee check Kaprizov took during a November game in Edmonton, which kept him out of the lineup for one game. The coach added that he has not seen anything to indicate the absence will be long-term. “I don’t have a big concern level as of now because he was a little bit banged up prior to going into the break, but we all saw how he played against Chicago,” Hynes said, referencing the team-leading 23rd goal of the season that Kaprizov scored in a 4-3 win over the Blackhawks on Monday. “We’ll see what he does today with his treatments and see what he does tomorrow.” Stars coach Peter DeBoer got the news of Kaprizov’s absence from the media following his team’s morning skate. “Obviously, an important player. I probably could’ve saved myself some time in my pre-scout this morning if I’d known that earlier,” he said, noting that they weren’t expecting an easy night with or without Kaprizov. “When I look at Minnesota, they’re a team that’s the true sum of their parts rather than one player. “They’ve got four lines, they defend well, they’ve got great goaltending. So, probably a lot like us, you can take a player out of the lineup and still be competitive. But still, that’s a big guy out for them.” The Wild will host Ottawa on Sunday evening and Nashville on Tuesday evening.WASHINGTON — The House shut down Democrats' efforts Thursday to release the long-awaited ethics report into former Rep. Matt Gaetz, pushing the fate of any resolution to the yearslong investigation of sexual misconduct allegations into further uncertainty. The nearly party-line votes came after Democrats had been pressing for the findings to be published even though the Florida Republican left Congress and withdrew as President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for attorney general. Rep. Tom McClintock, R-Calif., was the sole Republican to support the effort. Most Republicans have argued that any congressional probe into Gaetz ended when he resigned from the House. Speaker Mike Johnson also requested that the committee not publish its report, saying it would be a terrible precedent to set. While ethics reports have previously been released after a member’s resignation, it is extremely rare. Shortly before the votes took place, Rep. Sean Casten, D-Ill., who introduced one of the bills to force the release, said that if Republicans reject the release, they will have “succeeded in sweeping credible allegations of sexual misconduct under the rug.” Gaetz has repeatedly denied the claims. Earlier Thursday, the Ethics panel met to discuss the Gaetz report but made no decision, saying in a short statement that the matter is still being discussed. It's unclear now whether the document will ever see the light of day as lawmakers have only a few weeks left before a new session of Congress begins. It's the culmination of weeks of pressure on the Ethics committee's five Republicans and five Democrats who mostly work in secret as they investigate allegations of misconduct against lawmakers. The status of the Gaetz investigation became an open question last month when he abruptly resigned from Congress after Trump's announcement that he wanted his ally in the Cabinet. It is standard practice for the committee to end investigations when members of Congress depart, but the circumstances surrounding Gaetz were unusual, given his potential role in the new administration. Rep. Michael Guest, R-Miss., the committee chairman, said Wednesday that there is no longer the same urgency to release the report given that Gaetz has left Congress and stepped aside as Trump's choice to head the Justice Department. “I’ve been steadfast about that. He’s no longer a member. He is no longer going to be confirmed by the Senate because he withdrew his nomination to be the attorney general,” Guest said. The Gaetz report has also caused tensions between lawmakers on the bipartisan committee. Pennsylvania Rep. Susan Wild, the top Democrat on the panel, publicly admonished Guest last month for mischaracterizing a previous meeting to the press. Gaetz has denied any wrongdoing and said last year that the Justice Department’s separate investigation against him into sex trafficking allegations involving underage girls ended without federal charges. His onetime political ally Joel Greenberg, a fellow Republican who served as the tax collector in Florida’s Seminole County, admitted as part of a plea deal with prosecutors in 2021 that he paid women and an underage girl to have sex with him and other men. The men were not identified in court documents when he pleaded guilty. Greenberg was sentenced in late 2022 to 11 years in prison.
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A new media company will be getting their slice of the NFL pie this Christmas as the Netflix streaming service will be broadcasting two games later this month. But their broadcast crew for the game will reportedly consist of at least one person that fans appear completely uninterested in. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Thanks for the feedback.