Comment by Anna G. Eshoo

Content controls, a free content filter, monitoring of applications, and a code of conduct are several other steps industry and academia, with the coaxing of the Administration and policymakers, could take to encourage responsible science and guard against the misuse of AI-focused drug discovery. Finally, requiring the use of an API, with code and data available upon request, would greatly enhance security and control over how published models are utilized without adding much hindrance to accessibility. APIs can: (1) block queries that have potentially dual-use applications; (2) screen users, such as requiring an institutional affiliation; and (3) flag suspicious activity. I urge you to explore this and any other viable methods within your authorities to reduce the likelihood of open-source AI models being misused for bioweapons. AI has important applications in biotechnology, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals, however, we should remain vigilant against the potential harm dual-use applications represent for the national security, economic security, and public health of the United States, in the same way we would with physical resources such as molecules or biologics. To mitigate these risks, I urge the Administration to include the governance of dual-use, open-source AI models in its upcoming discussions at the BWC Review Conference and investigate methods of governance such as mandating the use of APIs. AI Verified source (2022)