In a concerted effort to safeguard individual rights amidst the expanding use of artificial intelligence (AI), five additional federal agencies have pledged to uphold principles of fairness and equality alongside the Justice Department.
The Justice Department revealed on April 4, 2024, that an extended coalition of cabinet-level federal agencies has committed to preserving fundamental civil rights as AI technologies permeate various facets of American society.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke emphasized the collective resolve of federal agencies to address potential discriminatory outcomes arising from the widespread adoption of AI.
Clarke affirmed:
“Federal agencies are sending a clear message: we will use our collective authority and power to protect individual rights in the wake of increased reliance on artificial intelligence in various aspects of American life.”
The joint statement, initially announced in April 2023, now encompasses the Department of Education, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Housing and Urban Development, and Department of Labor. Additionally, the Consumer Protection Branch of the Justice Department’s Civil Division has joined the pledge.
This expanded collaboration underscores recent agency achievements, including policy guidance and enforcement actions concerning automated systems.
In a move towards enhanced transparency, Assistant Attorney General Clarke disclosed the launch of a dedicated webpage by the Civil Rights Division. This resource consolidates information related to the Division’s efforts in addressing AI-related civil rights issues, facilitating public access to pertinent information and assistance avenues.
The developments follow a recent gathering convened by the Civil Rights Division on April 3, aiming to foster coordination between civil rights offices and senior officials across the federal spectrum concerning AI and civil rights. This gathering marked the second such event orchestrated by the Division post the issuance of President Biden’s Executive Order on the Safe, Secure and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence.
During the session, representatives from various agencies deliberated on strategies to bolster enforcement, coordination, external engagement, and public awareness regarding AI’s potential discriminatory implications. Moreover, discussions centered on agency obligations mandated under the Executive Order, with forthcoming guidance and resources anticipated by the end of April.
Key participants included officials from agencies such as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Department of Agriculture, Department of Commerce, Department of Education, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Housing and Urban Development, Department of the Interior, Department of Labor, Department of Transportation, Department of the Treasury, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Federal Trade Commission, and Social Security Administration.
Through collaborative efforts and proactive measures, federal agencies aim to navigate the intersection of AI and civil rights, ensuring equitable outcomes in the evolving technological landscape.
