Overview
Title
To establish the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource, and for other purposes.
ELI5 AI
The bill wants to create a special place where people can study and learn about super smart computers, called AI, and make sure everyone, even those who might not have had the same chances before, can join in and help. It wants to make sure this smart computer stuff is safe, fair, and good for everyone, and it also talks about how to make it work without wasting money or being unfair.
Summary AI
S. 2714 aims to create the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR) with the goal of advancing artificial intelligence (AI) research in the United States. It proposes establishing a network that provides researchers with diverse AI resources, including data, computational tools, and educational services. The bill also emphasizes improving AI access for historically underrepresented groups in STEM fields and ensuring that AI development is safe, ethical, and beneficial to all Americans. A Program Management Office and an Operating Entity will oversee the NAIRR's day-to-day functions and ensure compliance with privacy and security standards.
Published
Keywords AI
Sources
Bill Statistics
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Language
Complexity
AnalysisAI
The bill under consideration, titled the "Creating Resources for Every American to Experiment with Artificial Intelligence Act of 2023" (CREATE AI Act of 2023), aims to establish a National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR) to promote artificial intelligence (AI) research and development in the United States. It proposes a framework for an AI research infrastructure accessible to a broad range of stakeholders, including researchers, educators, and students, particularly those from historically underrepresented groups in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Summary of Significant Issues
Several potential issues arise with the passage of this bill. Firstly, the selection process for the "Operating Entity," which is crucial for running the NAIRR, lacks detailed guidelines, potentially opening the door to favoritism or inefficient management. Clarity and transparency around its selection criteria would be beneficial to ensure fair practices.
Moreover, access to computational resources and datasets is currently limited largely to major technology companies, which may reinforce existing industrial dominance unless explicit steps are taken to democratize access. The bill does not specify how these resources will be equitably distributed, raising concerns about inclusivity.
Another issue is related to financial aspects, as the bill does not provide clear guidelines on how the fees for accessing the NAIRR will be determined. This lack of clarity might lead to inequitable financial barriers for some users, potentially obstructing the intended wide accessibility. There's further vagueness concerning the provision of a "free tier of access," which lacks defined scope and limits.
Impact on the Public and Stakeholders
Broadly, the bill is likely to have a positive impact on advancing AI research by providing a centralized resource for computational tools and data. This could spur innovation across various fields by ensuring more stakeholders have access to these critical resources. By targeting groups historically underrepresented in STEM fields, the bill has the potential to diversify the talent pool and include a wider range of perspectives in AI development, which is essential for ethical and inclusive AI systems.
However, the lack of detailed budgeting guidance and constraints could lead to potential wasteful spending, which might affect public perceptions of government efficiency and accountability. This might concern taxpayers about how their contributions are being allocated.
For specific stakeholders, researchers and educators in AI can benefit from increased access to resources, potentially leveling the playing field with large technology companies. Conversely, smaller entities and educational institutions might face hurdles if the fee structure is not accessible, thus impeding their ability to fully leverage NAIRR resources.
Major technology companies, which traditionally have abundant access to AI resources, might see increased competition. At the same time, these companies might benefit from the broader advancement of AI, which could spur collaborations and innovations within the technology sector.
In conclusion, while the CREATE AI Act of 2023 holds promise for advancing AI research and diversifying participation in the field, careful consideration and amendments addressing the issues highlighted could enhance its efficacy and ensure equitable access and management of resources.
Issues
The selection process for the Operating Entity lacks detailed guidelines and oversight mechanisms, which could lead to favoritism or inefficient operation (Section 3, Section 5602).
Access to computational resources and datasets is often limited to very large technology companies, raising concern about the potential reinforcement of dominance by these entities without clear actions to democratize access (Section 2).
The bill does not specify how fees for accessing the NAIRR will be determined, which might lead to inequitable access or financial barriers for certain users (Section 5603, Section 3).
The complexity and lack of transparency in language and references to other statutes may hinder understanding and oversight, particularly concerning sections cross-referencing multiple external documents (Sections 5601, 3, and 5602).
There are no specific budgetary constraints or financial oversight mechanisms mentioned, which raises concerns about potential wasteful spending (Section 2, Section 5602).
The potential for multiple entities and subcommittees without strict guidelines might lead to inefficiencies or power struggles, impacting the effective management of the NAIRR (Section 3, Section 5602).
The bill lacks clear description and enforcement mechanisms for ensuring privacy, ethics, civil rights, and civil liberties, which could lead to inconsistencies and ethical concerns (Section 5604).
The absence of detailed criteria or definitions for terms such as 'very large technology companies' and 'cutting-edge research' may lead to ambiguous interpretations and enforcement difficulties (Section 2).
The fee schedule's potential lack of provision against excessive fees might impose financial burdens on eligible users (Section 3, Section 5604).
The provision for a free tier of access based on appropriated funds is vague and does not define the scope or limits of this access, potentially affecting equitable access (Section 3, Section 5604).
Sections
Sections are presented as they are annotated in the original legislative text. Any missing headers, numbers, or non-consecutive order is due to the original text.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section provides the short title of the Act, which is the “Creating Resources for Every American To Experiment with Artificial Intelligence Act of 2023” or simply the “CREATE AI Act of 2023.”
2. Findings Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Congress acknowledges that advanced artificial intelligence research needs significant computing power and data, resources mainly controlled by large tech companies. The limited access to these resources hinders diversity in AI research, and it's vital for U.S. leadership in AI to involve diverse talent. The National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource Task Force suggests creating a national resource to support this effort.
3. National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR) is a government initiative aimed at advancing AI research in the U.S. by establishing a steering subcommittee, ensuring diverse representation, and providing resources such as computational tools, data, and education, while maintaining high standards for privacy and ethics. The NAIRR will be overseen by the National Science Foundation, in collaboration with other agencies, to improve access to AI resources, especially for traditionally underrepresented groups, and is structured to uphold scientific integrity and security.
5601. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section defines various terms used throughout the bill, such as "Advisory Committee" which refers to committees set up under specific rules, "AI testbed" which is a special facility mentioned in another law, and "STEM" which stands for subjects like science, technology, engineering, and math. It also clarifies what is meant by terms related to artificial intelligence research resources and several management entities within the bill.
5602. Establishment; governance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The bill requires the National Science Foundation to establish the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR) within a year, to enhance AI research and access to resources in the U.S. The NSF will also create a Program Management Office to manage NAIRR and set up Advisory Committees for additional guidance, involving coordination with other federal agencies and the private sector.
5603. Resources of the NAIRR Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the responsibilities of managing the resources of the NAIRR (National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource). It details how they will coordinate various computational and data resources, establish data and ethical standards, and offer educational tools to support AI development, ensuring everything they use is updated, useful, and reported publicly.
5604. NAIRR processes and procedures Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The document outlines eligibility, privacy, security, and procedural guidelines for access to the NAIRR (National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource). Eligible users include U.S.-based researchers, educators, or students associated with certain institutions or businesses. The operating framework ensures privacy and scientific integrity while emphasizing the security of data and users. There is a fee structure that includes free access, prioritizing projects beneficial to public interests and adhering to national security protocols.
1. Short title Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section specifies that this Act is officially named the “Creating Resources for Every American To Experiment with Artificial Intelligence Act of 2024” or simply the “CREATE AI Act of 2024”.
2. Findings Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
Congress highlights the importance of artificial intelligence by noting that access to computing resources and data is usually limited to big tech companies, which harms diversity in AI research. They stress the need for a diverse talent pool and reference a 2023 report recommending the creation of a National AI Research Resource to strengthen and share AI innovation across the U.S.
3. National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR) is established to enhance access to artificial intelligence for research and development purposes in the United States. The initiative includes the creation of a Program Management Office to oversee operations, ensure ethical standards, and manage resources, including computational tools, data, and educational materials, to support innovation while ensuring privacy and security.
5601. Definitions Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section provides definitions for terms used in relation to the bill, such as "Advisory Committee," "AI Testbed," and "STEM," clarifying their meanings and how they are used within the context of the legislation.
5602. Establishment; governance Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the creation and management of the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR) by the National Science Foundation. It describes key responsibilities, such as establishing a Program Management Office to oversee operations, selecting a nongovernmental Operating Entity, and developing policies and standards to support AI research, while ensuring the safe and ethical use of AI technologies.
5603. Resources of the NAIRR Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section describes responsibilities for managing the resources of the NAIRR, including coordinating, procuring, and reviewing resources and ensuring their ethical use. It outlines what resources will be offered, such as different types of computational resources and data repositories, and emphasizes providing educational tools, AI testbeds, and outreach, particularly for underrepresented groups in STEM.
5604. NAIRR processes and procedures Read Opens in new tab
Summary AI
The section outlines the processes and procedures for the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR), detailing user eligibility criteria, privacy and security measures, fee structures, and research security guidelines. It specifies who can use NAIRR resources, sets minimum security standards, allows for varying levels of access, and encourages the use of open-source software.