By Edward Roske
WASHINGTON, DC — President Joe Biden’s new Executive Order on Artificial Intelligence (AI) isn’t just making waves in Silicon Valley; it’s set to impact Puerto Rico’s emerging tech sector.
U.S. AI Leadership and Puerto Rico’s Tech Scene
The Biden administration aims to make the United States a global frontrunner in AI while also making sure we’re operating ethically and safely (we’re trying to avoid a Skynet situation here, people). This ambition could send ripples through Puerto Rico’s growing tech community.
Issued on October 30, the Executive Order focuses on “seizing the promise and managing the risks of artificial intelligence,” according to the White House’s fact sheet. This paves the way for federal resources, grants, and partnerships that could energize Puerto Rico’s AI startups and research centers.
The order also aims to boost AI skills among government workers. Within 45 days, the directive calls for a “national surge in AI talent in the Federal Government.” This could open doors for tech-savvy individuals in Puerto Rico to join these efforts and bring their unique perspectives. If you’ve got the skills (or you want to develop the skills), Uncle Sam wants you… for AI duty.
Ethical AI: Civil Rights and Social Equity
he ethical side of AI hasn’t escaped the administration’s attention. Vice President Kamala Harris was clear: “We have a moral, ethical, and societal duty to adopt and advance AI responsibly.” This isn’t just a mainland issue. Puerto Rico’s diverse society can benefit from ethical AI practices, making tech inclusion more than just a catch phrase.
The executive order’s emphasis on civil rights and social equity is particularly poignant for Puerto Rico, given its complex historical relationship with the mainland United States. “Responsible AI use has the potential to help solve urgent challenges while making our world more prosperous, productive, innovative, and secure,” said President Biden’s Executive Order. This focus could lead to AI-driven solutions that address longstanding issues in Puerto Rico, such as healthcare access, economic inequality, and disaster response inefficiencies (to put it politely).
President Biden did offer words of caution about the unethical use of AI, commenting, “irresponsible use could exacerbate societal harms such as fraud, discrimination, bias, and disinformation; displace and disempower workers; stifle competition; and pose risks to national security.”
A Call for Collaboration
The Biden administration wants different groups – like government offices, grassroots organizations, and businesses – to work together on AI. Vice President Harris said, “We must collaborate to ensure responsible AI use.” This collaborative approach could lead to more federal grants and partnerships for Puerto Rican institutions, amplifying local AI research and applications.
President Biden’s executive order on AI is not an isolated policy directive aimed solely at the continental United States. Its implications are broad and could significantly shape Puerto Rico’s technological and ethical landscape, offering a more equitable and innovative future for the island.
In a world where AI is no longer confined to Silicon Valley, Puerto Rico has a unique opportunity. This Executive Order could be our ticket to a smarter, more equitable future. Your journey starts now and your first step? AI.gov.
