Senate Finance Committee leaders, Ron Wyden and Mike Crapo, have requested information from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and Health and Human Services (HHS) on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and the measures being taken to ensure fair and effective utilization of this technology. They expressed the need for safeguarding the use of AI systems which impact the daily lives of Americans and the importance of understanding AI applications within the Finance Committee’s jurisdiction. The powerful potential of AI technology to speed legitimate trade and enforcement efforts has also been highlighted by the leaders.
In their letters to CBP, DHS, and HHS, Wyden and Crapo sought additional information on how these agencies are using AI for various activities such as cargo screenings, small package screenings, compliance, data synthesis, and program management. They have also emphasized the necessity of establishing guardrails to identify and correct any algorithmic bias found in the AI technology being used by these federal agencies. Wyden has consistently advocated for protecting Americans against algorithmic bias within flawed AI technology, particularly due to its increasing reliance and disproportionate impact on marginalized communities.
Amidst their ongoing oversight efforts, Wyden has further requested information from the IRS Commissioner on the use of AI technology by the agency for the upcoming filing season. The letters to CBP and DHS, as well as HHS, can be found on the Senate Finance Committee’s official website. These actions by the Finance Committee leaders underscore the importance of responsible and equitable use of AI technology by federal agencies, reflecting their commitment to ensure the accuracy and fairness of AI systems that influence American lives.
