June 12, 2023 — Data & Society’s comment to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) addresses the purposes, possibilities, and limitations of algorithmic accountability mechanisms and the structures and regulations needed to realize a true democratic system of algorithmic accountability in the United States.

Mandating public-facing documentation, impact assessments, and means to redress are essential to create an accountable AI ecosystem. The public cannot be expected to protect themselves from algorithmic systems without the statutory right to inspect those systems and demand changes. The government must ensure these rights, as well as abide by and uphold the principles of the Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights to ensure that Americans are protected from algorithmic harm and discrimination.

We hope this aids NTIA’s aim to “develop a productive AI accountability ecosystem” and to create a report on AI accountability development.