What happened?

On 16 May 2024, the US Department of Labor (DOL) issued principles for employers regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace, emphasizing worker involvement as a core principle. 

What are the details?

In response to President Biden’s 2023 AI Executive Order, the Department of Labor (DOL) issued AI Principles. These principles stress ethical AI development, worker involvement in AI processes, worker rights protection, and AI utilization to improve work. The order also directed the DOL to establish best practices for employers and federal contractors.

Key Bites for Employers

• The document states that the DOL’s AI Principles apply during the entire lifecycle of AI, from the development, testing, and deployment of AI systems in the workplace, to oversight, use, and auditing.
• The principles include but are not limited to:
  • Data minimization
  • Ethical Development of AI for Workers and Jobs
  • Transparency
  • Meaningful worker empowerment

The principles aim to address challenges posed by AI implementation and ensure workers are not undercompensated or unfairly evaluated, while also safeguarding their ability to organize. 

Business Considerations

• Employers should take into consideration the swift changes in the regulatory environment necessitate that they closely monitor existing and emerging legal directives related to AI.
• Employers should consider providing training and education for employees to understand AI systems and their implications.
• Although not mandatory, employers should consider implementing or using the principles as a framework in their industry and workplace.

Source References

• Department of Labor’s Artificial Intelligence and Worker Well-being: Principles for Developers and Employers
• BIDEN-HARRIS ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES GROUNDBREAKING AI PRINCIPLES FOR WORKER WELL-BEING Press Release
• Executive Order on the Safe, Secure and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence

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