Editor’s note: This article is based on insights from a podcast series. The views expressed in the podcast reflect the speakers’ perspectives and do not necessarily represent those of this publication. Readers are encouraged to explore the full podcast for additional context.
Congressman Gabe Amo, representing the First District of Rhode Island in the U.S. House of Representatives, recently joined host Sanjay Puri of Regulating AI Podcast to discuss the need for AI literacy, responsible regulation, and stronger measures to combat misinformation.
Amo, a member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, stressed on the necessity for proactive measures to ensure that individuals are prepared to engage with AI effectively, rather than reacting after the fact.
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“If we wait until one is at deployment of the technology in the workforce setting… it’s too late,” Amo said, noting the urgency of addressing AI education and policy before the technology becomes fully integrated into society, especially with high stakes usage such as banking or medical consultations.
With experience at both state and federal levels, Amo has been involved in the government’s early efforts to engage with and respond to AI—calling it one of the most “disruptive” and “meaningful technologies” of our time.
The Congressman, who served as Special Assistant to the President and Deputy Director of the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs under the Biden administration, drew parallels between the integration of the internet into education and the need for AI literacy. Embedding AI education into the curriculum from an early age, he noted, ensured that students developed a comprehensive understanding of the technology.
“The future is now,” Amo said, touching on the immediacy of integrating AI education into K-12 curriculums. He highlighted the Literacy in Future Technologies (LIFT) AI Act, a bipartisan bill he co-sponsored to provide funding for AI education and teacher training. The legislation, he said, aims to ensure that future generations are equipped to use AI responsibly.
“We need to name the problem,” said Congressman Amo. “Problem identification is how you get to a solution. Having the right people at the table and setting broad goals around inclusion are crucial to harnessing AI’s potential in areas like public health and education.”
Amo highlighted the importance of intentionality in AI development, cautioning that while technology is often seen as a great equalizer, it can only serve that role if inclusivity is embedded at every stage. By fostering diverse participation in AI-related fields, the LIFT AI Act aims to create pathways for underrepresented communities to contribute meaningfully to technological advancements.
Beyond education, Amo discussed AI’s potential in local governance, particularly in areas such as climate resilience, public safety, and crisis management. He pointed to Rhode Island’s use of AI in analyzing storm patterns and improving urban planning as examples of how technology can enhance decision-making at the state and local levels.
However, Amo also warned about the risks of AI-driven misinformation, calling it “one of the biggest threats” to democracy ahead of the 2024 elections. He stressed the need for regulatory oversight to ensure AI platforms provide accurate information, particularly regarding election procedures.
“This time is unique because of the speed with which information moves,” he warned, stressing the urgency of implementing safeguards against AI-generated falsehoods.
“We need a broad set of partnerships and a clearinghouse to block low-quality sources from misleading the public,” Amo stated. He emphasized that while public skepticism towards information is at an all-time high, prioritizing objectivity and truth in AI systems will be key to maintaining democratic integrity.
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“The AI Safety Institute […] is a bold step towards addressing […] the mitigation of risk,” Amo highlighted the need for government involvement in overseeing AI development to prevent potential harms and ensure ethical practices.
The podcast concluded with a discussion on the future of AI regulation and its role in advancing democratic values. Congressman Amo expressed confidence in the nation’s ability to navigate these challenges and ensure that AI serves as a force for good.
“The best thing we can do is isolate the noise, focus on objectivity, and ensure clear alignment on truth and facts,” he said. “With responsible AI development, we can build a future where technology enhances democracy rather than undermines it.”
The Regulating AI podcast explores global perspectives on artificial intelligence policy and governance, featuring conversations with lawmakers, industry leaders, and experts.