California AI order requires firms seeking state contracts to have safeguards against abuse
March 30 (Reuters) – California Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order on Monday requiring companies to enter into government contracts to protect against misuse of artificial intelligence, including illegal content production, harmful bias and civil rights violations.
* To prevent misinformation, the order requires agencies “to add watermarks to images or videos that can be created through artificial intelligence, according to government-issued guidance.” * If the federal government labels a company as a supply chain risk, California will conduct its own assessment and may allow it to remain a contractor if it finds it not risky. * This order came after the Pentagon identified an official supply chain risk.artificial intelligence laboratoryAntropik bans government contractors from using the firm’s technology in their work for the US military. * Within 120 days, the California Department of General Services and the Department of Technology will submit proposals for new AI-related supplier certifications that would allow companies to demonstrate responsible AI stewardship and public safety protections. * The order underscores the state’s efforts to maintain an independent stance despite efforts by some Republican lawmakers to defer to federal officials on legislation and regulation. * In February, California Attorney General Rob Bonta told Reuters in an interview that his office was building on its in-house expertise through an “AI oversight, accountability and regulation program.”
(Reporting by Carlos Méndez in Mexico City; Editing by Edwina Gibbs)
