As the 2024 elections approach amidst increased turbulence on Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C., is in a state of flux.

Major issues, including the regulation of generative artificial intelligence, have reached a fever pitch inside the Beltway. As with any change in Washington, organizations seeking to make an impact on the AI debate should prepare for all scenarios and be ready to engage in the discussion.

AI will change society. Its associated labor concerns pose risks to a range of industries and professions, including, but not limited to, copyright holders, coders and writers. AI-generated deepfakes have ignited new ethical debates in U.S. politics, and the technology’s role in data collection has led to public concern about data privacy. At the same time, AI has the potential to provide limitless benefits, from lifesaving cancer treatments in our hospitals to supercharging the future of space flight. Ushering in a new era of AI-driven solutions requires a regulatory roadmap.

What does this uncertainty mean for organizations with a vested interest in advancing U.S. competitiveness and industries that will be transformed by AI?

There is a unique opportunity to influence the AI debate and its regulation. Washington is being called upon to maximize AI’s impact while also limiting its potential to wreak havoc on the economy, industry and our nation’s workers. Congressional hearings on AI have increased, with calls for immediate regulation and the need to develop an AI-ready workforce.

Amidst all the noise, there is a real desire for substantive expertise in AI. Between calls for recommendations from federal agencies on guardrails to the development of AI technology, policymakers need insider input to inform their position and effectively regulate this powerful technology.

Take steps to share your perspective. What is missing from the current debate? What considerations should be incorporated?

It’s more important than ever to build a communications strategy and find the appropriate channels to share your expertise.

  • Engage policymakers and shape an important narrative through tactics like policy messaging, Hill one-pagers, op-eds and targeted digital campaigns.
  • Monitor proposed AI legislation and the Biden Administration’s expected Executive Order. Be prepared to issue letters and public statements that share your perspective.
  • Build coalitions of like-minded organizations. Leverage your third-party stakeholders to build support for your cause.

This debate extends far beyond the tech companies driving the development of AI innovation. It includes education institutions, workforce development organizations, healthcare innovators and the public. Subject matter experts have invaluable knowledge and insight needed to help policymakers make well-informed decisions about AI. Now is the time to shape the future.

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RH Strategic is a Seattle and D.C.-based PR agency with a nationwide presence and additional global reach via membership in the Worldcom Public Relations Group. We provide strategic public relations for innovators in the technology, government, healthcare, and social and environmental impact markets.