The House Task Force on Artificial Intelligence Tuesday released its year-end report, which highlighted how the United States can responsibly lead in its approach on AI technology while recognizing guardrails that may be needed.
The 253-page report, released by task force co-chairs Reps. Jay Obernolte, R-Calif., and Ted Lieu, D-Calif., comes after an investigation by the 24-member task force and discussions with more than 100 experts, government officials, and more.
The report broke down the information into recommendations under 14 categories, including healthcare, national security, government, agriculture, and more.
"Developing a bipartisan vision for AI adoption, innovation, and governance is no easy task, but a necessary one as we look to the future of AI and ensure Americans see real benefits from this technology," House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., commented in a press release.
"Thanks to the leadership of the Task Force Co-Chairs Jay Obernolte and Ted Lieu, and the hard work of all the members involved, Congress has a better understanding of how to leverage the promises and navigate the complexities of this transformative technology," he added.
The task force, in its report, noted lawmakers are not clear yet on whether legislation is needed to harness artificial intelligence but still recommended that intellectual property laws and regulations be clarified officially.
The issue of AI-generated deepfakes was also noted in the report. Several bills to control the problem have been advanced but have not cleared Congress, often because of questions over free speech rights.
"As with traditional content, synthetic content is broadly protected as free speech under the First Amendment," the report found. "Even if the content is, or might be, synthetic or faked, that alone does not justify attempts to prohibit its creation or distribution."
But as there is no solution to confirm content, the report suggested that Congress focus on supporting multiple solutions and consider legislation clarifying the legal responsibilities of AI producers as well as content distributors.
The lawmakers, though, said the benefits of government's use of AI are "potentially transformative," but improper use can be a risk to Americans' privacy and security.
Johnson said the development and safe adoption of AI holds "great promise" and said that Congress will play an important role in advancing its benefits.
Obernolte, meanwhile, said he is sure the report will be an "essential tool" for crafting a national AI policy that "protects Americans, spurs innovation, and secures American leadership in this revolutionary technology."