In the recent webinar titled “Navigating US AI Regulation and Government Policy for In-House Counsel,” experts Matthew Ferraro, the Senior Counsel for Cybersecurity and Emerging Technology to the Secretary of Homeland Security; Alexandra Seymour, the Staff Director of the House Homeland Security Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection Subcommittee; and Daniel Lewis, the US CEO of LegalOn Technologies shed light on the rapidly evolving landscape of AI regulation and its implications for legal professionals. This informative session highlighted several key challenges and provided practical advice on how in-house counsel can navigate the complexities of AI.
Here are the five major takeaways from the discussion:
1. Intellectual Property and Data Privacy Concerns
A major focus of the webinar was the significant risks posed by intellectual property and data privacy issues, particularly when it comes to the data used in training AI models. Questions surrounding the patentability of AI-generated innovations and the protection of user data were explored in depth. In-house counsel must stay proactive in addressing these concerns to safeguard corporate assets and ensure compliance with data privacy regulations.
2. Cybersecurity Threats
As AI technology advances, so do the risks of AI-driven cyber attacks. The panel underscored the growing threats of sophisticated attacks, including deepfakes and disinformation campaigns. In-house legal teams need to work closely with cybersecurity experts to fortify their defenses and leverage AI for cyber protection. Staying vigilant against emerging AI-related threats is crucial to protecting both corporate data and reputation.
3. Complex Regulatory Landscape
The regulatory environment for AI is intricate, with varying layers of oversight at the federal, state, and international levels. The discussion highlighted the complexities of these regulations, noting that in-house counsel must be prepared for both current regulations and potential new legislation. The conversation touched on the importance of understanding how state actions, federal legislation, and international agreements interact, emphasizing the need for legal teams to stay updated on this evolving legal framework.
4. AI in Business Contracts
The webinar illustrated how AI is reshaping contract management. By identifying potential risks and offering redlined suggestions, AI tools can enhance contract negotiation and ensure compliance with intellectual property and regulatory standards. In-house counsel must leverage these tools to streamline processes and mitigate risks tied to generative AI.
5. Educational and Legislative Efforts
The session also highlighted the increasing interest from Congress in AI regulation and the importance of a thoughtful, deliberate approach. With AI’s growing societal and national security implications, businesses must engage in the conversation. By educating policymakers and participating in legislative discussions, companies can help shape the future of AI regulation while staying informed about detection technologies like digital provenance and watermarking.
The webinar provided a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities in AI regulation for in-house counsel. By staying engaged with educational and legislative efforts, in-house counsel can play a key role in ensuring the responsible deployment of AI technologies and contribute to the overall success and security of their organizations.
Missed The Webinar? You can watch it now via IHC On-Demand!
