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U.S. Dept. of Commerce Advances AI Safety
The U.S. Department of Commerce recently announced reforms to the U.S. AI Safety Institute (USAISI), which is now known at the Center for AI Standards and Innovation (CAISI). CAISI leads collaboration between the federal government and industry to drive innovation in AI, while supporting safety and national security. CAISI operates within the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
Coverage of this development can be found in Nextgov. The Business Software Alliance (BSA) welcomed the news, noting that, “CAISI can create needed clarity and consistency in the United States’ approach to Al testing, and help to ensure that innovators have the tools they need to develop Al and harness its benefits.”
More from Commerce: BEAD Reform
Last month, Commerce also announced reforms to the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program aimed at reducing regulatory burdens and supporting tech-neutrality. The BEAD program provides federal dollars to states to help close the broadband gap. States must resubmit BEAD applications to respond to the new rules. Coverage of this news can be found in StateScoop.
Microsoft Helps Rural Hospitals Strengthen Cyber Resilience
Just over a year ago, Microsoft launched its Cybersecurity Program for Rural Hospitals to help protect hospitals serving more than 60 million people from a range of cyber threats. Since the launch, more than one-third of all rural hospitals have enrolled in the program, which provides access to security technology, training, and support. Microsoft is also working with rural hospitals to help them access the clinical and operational benefits of AI. You can learn more about building rural health resiliency at this link. You can also help by sharing this information and registration page with a rural hospital.
Microsoft Releases AI Transparency Report
On June 20, Microsoft released its second annual AI Transparency Report. The report details steps the company is taking to support responsible AI—and to support its customers’ use of AI. The report also notes that the regulatory environment for AI is still being defined. The company’s early focus on building a comprehensive and industry-leading responsible AI program positions Microsoft to comply—and help its customers comply—with emerging AI regulations, such as the EU AI Act. For key takeaways from the report, check out this Microsoft on the Issues blog. You can also find the complete report at this link.