EU Advances AI Act to Regulate Artificial Intelligence Models

European Union member states have given their approval to the AI Act, originally proposed by the European Commission in 2021. The legislation aims to regulate the use of artificial intelligence models, addressing concerns and incorporating pro-innovation measures.
https://www.slashinsider.com/eu-member-states-greenlight-ai-act-for-regulating-artificial-intelligence-models/

AI Artificial intelligence words, miniature of robot and EU flag are seen in this illustration taken December 21, 2023. Credit: REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo

Content of the AI Act:

1. The legislation, known as the AI Act, proposes a ban on harmful AI practices such as emotion recognition in workplaces and educational institutions.
2. It also introduces rules for regulating high-risk neural networks, particularly in sectors like insurance and banking.

Provisional Approval and Concerns: The draft received provisional approval in December, leading to negotiations among EU member states. Germany, France, and Austria expressed concerns about its impact on AI innovation and privacy provisions.

Addressing Concerns:

1. To address concerns, the European Commission introduced a “package of pro-innovation measures” for the AI sector.
2. A new regulatory body, the Artificial Intelligence Office, was created to implement the AI Act.

Implementation Process:

1. An expert group comprising officials from EU member states will advise the European Commission on the implementation process.
2. Emphasis will be placed on avoiding overlap between the AI Act and other existing EU regulations, particularly those related to medical devices and machinery.

Parliamentary Approval Process:

1. The AI Act is set to go before a committee vote in the European Parliament later this month.
2. If approved, the legislation will proceed to a full plenary vote, with expectations that it will pass without significant changes.

Rollout Phases:

1. The legislation will be rolled out in phases, with the section specifying banned AI practices taking effect six months after passage.
2. Provisions related to high-impact GPAI models are scheduled to apply from 2025 onward.