November 2023

California’s Privacy Protection Agency Releases Draft Rules for Automated Decision Technologies

California's Privacy Protection Agency has released draft regulations on the use of Automated Decision-making Technologies (ADTs), defining them as any system, software or process that processes personal information and uses computation to make or execute decisions or facilitate human decision-making. Under the proposed rules, consumers have the right to access information on the technologies employed and the methodologies by which decisions were developed, while businesses must disclose the usage of personal information in ADTs to consumers and provide opt-out modalities. The move is part of California's wider effort to regulate the use of AI within the State.

The UK’s AI Regulation Bill: A New Direction in AI Governance?

Lord Chris Holmes introduced The Artificial Intelligence (Regulation) Bill in the UK House of Lords, which mandates the establishment of a dedicated AI Authority responsible for enforcing the regulation. The Bill defines AI and sets up regulatory principles and sandboxes to support innovation. It also proposes the appointment of AI responsible officers and enforces transparency, IP obligations, and labelling. It remains uncertain whether the Bill will be adopted, but AI regulations are gaining momentum worldwide. It is crucial to prioritize the development of AI systems that promote ethical principles such as fairness and harm mitigation. Holistic AI offers expertise in AI governance, risk, and compliance.

G7 Countries Release International Guiding Principles and a Code of Conduct on Governing Advanced AI Systems

The G7 nations have unveiled International Guiding Principles on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and a voluntary Code of Conduct for AI Developers, with 11 actionable guidelines for organisations involved in developing advanced foundational models. The guidelines include taking appropriate measures to identify and mitigate risks across the AI lifecycle, publicly reporting AI systems’ capabilities and limitations, and prioritising research to mitigate societal, safety, and security risks. The development is particularly relevant given the urgency among policymakers worldwide to chart regulatory pathways to govern AI responsibly, highlighted by several initiatives, including the Biden-Harris Administration’s Executive Order on AI and the establishment of the United Nations’ High Level Advisory Body.

October 2023

Biden Administration Signs Executive Order on AI

On October 30th, 2023, the Biden Administration signed an Executive Order on artificial intelligence aimed at establishing safety and security standards to protect Americans' privacy and civil rights. The order sets strict standards for AI testing, requires agencies to establish standards for biological synthesis screening and cybersecurity programs, and directs AI safety for the military and intelligence. It also aims to protect the equal opportunity and non-discrimination rights of U.S. citizens, provide resources to shape the transformative potential of AI in education and healthcare, and address job displacement caused by AI. The order promotes innovation and competition by providing support for small developers and entrepreneurs and expanding visas for skilled immigrants. The order also directs actions for international cooperation towards safe, secure, and trustworthy AI. The order requires AI companies to disclose their safety testing procedures and results to the U.S. Federal government. The Executive Order follows other recent efforts towards responsible AI by the Biden Administration.

Digital Services Act: European Commission Publishes Final Delegated Regulation on Conducting Independent Audits

On October 20, 2023, the European Commission published its final version of the Delegated Regulation on conducting Independent Audits for Very large Online Platforms (VLOPs) and Search Engines (VLOSEs) under the Digital Services Act (DSA). The rules seek to provide guidance to audited providers and auditors on the audit process, reporting templates, and procedural details. Holistic AI, a leader in AI Assurance and Algorithm Auditing, offers independent annual audits and other compliance services to covered entities under the DSA. The company provides customized solutions to assist businesses in complying with the regulation and offers a Final Audit Report with operational recommendations and risk analysis.