By Matt Brannon, Associate Director at Wachsman

AI regulation in the United States is currently a hotbed of confusion and disagreement. While the European Union is making strides with the AI Act, the United States is still stuck in a quagmire of debate over the necessary safeguards. This struggle mirrors the challenge of defining AI, pinpointing regulatory goals, and figuring out how to enforce regulation effectively.

The significance of AI regulation is beyond question. The technology’s rapid evolution and deployment across various sectors promise immense benefits, but not without risks – a fact that hasn’t escaped the public’s notice. A poll from Monmouth University revealed that a mere 9% of Americans believe AI will benefit society. This is a wake-up call.

U.S regulation should address a spectrum of known issues in AI, including its ability to make autonomous decisions, potential bias in decision-making, copyright infringements, and the public’s top concern, job displacement.

However, we must also consider the potential stifling effect of over-regulation on innovation. Striking a balance between fostering innovation and ensuring ethical use of AI is a delicate act. We can learn from the crypto industry’s experience, where a regulation-by-enforcement approach has proven both ineffective and harmful to innovators and the public.

Moreover, the blockchain industry could be a game-changer for AI, addressing the risks associated with concentrated ownership of AI technology. Blockchain can enhance data provenance, prevent deep fakes and disinformation, and enable collective ownership.

So, where does this leave AI companies in the U.S today? How do leaders at the cutting edge of this thrilling new technology navigate regulatory ambiguity and exercise sound judgment, while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible?

It’s a tough call, but I believe that education and proactive engagement with policymakers is the answer. The crypto industry serves as a case study. Regrettably, regulators were slow to grasp the industry’s potential, leading to hasty reactions. AI can potentially sidestep this pitfall by addressing the elephants in the room and through lobbying and effective proactive communications programs, reach policymakers with innovative ideas and potential solutions. The time is now.