Biden signs executive order to boost AI infrastructure development

In a significant move just days before leaving office, President Joe Biden has signed an executive order aimed at enhancing the United States' artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure.

This directive, announced on January 14, instructs the Department of Defense and the Department of Energy to lease federal land to private companies for the construction of AI data centers and clean energy facilities.

The executive order emphasises the need for these developments to be executed in a manner that bolsters economic competitiveness and national security while ensuring AI safety.

"This renewed partnership between the government and industry will ensure that the United States will continue to lead the age of AI," stated President Biden during the announcement.

The order mandates that federal sites utilise a "sufficient share" of domestically manufactured semiconductors.

Additionally, it allows for government oversight of private sector developers to assess the national security implications of AI models created on these sites.

Biden's action marks his 157th executive order since taking office in January 2021.

The timing is notable as it follows his proposal to restrict semiconductor sales to foreign nations, which has drawn criticism from industry leaders who argue it could hinder U.S. competitiveness.

As Biden prepares to hand over power to President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, there are expectations that Trump may also issue several executive orders on his first day, including those related to cryptocurrency policies.