As AI Grows, Rhode Island Experts Say the Risks Are Real

Former U.S. Representative James Langevin was one of the speakers at the event. He works at Rhode Island College's Institute for Cybersecurity and Emerging Technologies. When asked if Congress would pass laws to control AI, he was honest: he didn't think it would happen soon. 'AI has policymakers' attention, and it has the public's attention. I'd like to think we'd see some legislation from Congress, but it's doubtful right now,' he said.

Langevin explained why passing AI laws is so hard right now. Democrats and Republicans usually disagree about whether new rules are needed. On top of that, the United States and China are racing to build the most powerful AI. The president has said AI doesn't need to be regulated, and House Speaker Mike Johnson said companies can make their own rules.

Attorney and AI expert Monsurat Ottun agreed that the rush to be first is a big problem. She serves as a cybersecurity advisor for the state of Massachusetts. She said companies are so focused on winning the race that they are not being careful enough. She warned that the real danger is not AI itself, but the lack of rules around how it is used.

Not everyone thought strict rules were the only answer. Claude Arnell Milhouse is the CEO of yconic, a company in Providence that helps AI startups grow. He suggested that for every dollar spent building AI, some money should also go toward keeping it safe. 'We are in an arms race, and we have to figure out a way,' he said.

Eric J. Beane runs an organization called RAISE US, which helps workers get ready for a world with more AI. He said it is important to act now, before a crisis hits. RAISE US is already working with four states, and 30 states — including Rhode Island — have shown interest. Beane believes the federal government will step in, but probably only after something goes wrong.

Rhode Island is already trying to help its residents learn about AI. Rhode Island College launched a new website at ai.ri.gov with free tools and training. The project was built by Professor Timothy Henry, who created Rhode Island's first college major in Artificial Intelligence. The goal is to teach people how to use AI in a smart and responsible way.

Professor Henry also raised an important question about students and learning. He said teachers are trying to figure out when it's okay for students to use AI — and when it's better not to. He worries that using AI too early can stop students from developing important thinking skills. 'A lot of learning is that struggle in figuring out things for yourself,' he said.

Henry used a helpful comparison to explain his point. For an expert, he said, AI is like having superpowers. But for someone still learning, using AI too much can stop them from ever becoming an expert. He wants students to build their skills first, then use AI to make those skills even stronger.

In the end, Langevin said the risks of AI are real and cannot be ignored. But he also said AI has the power to do a lot of good. With the right rules and tools, he believes workers can become more productive and successful. The challenge is making sure the rules are in place before something goes wrong.