U.S. President Joe Biden signed a new executive order at the White House on Monday that seeks to reduce the risks that artificial intelligence poses to Americans and national security.

The order requires developers of AI systems to share the results of safety tests with the U.S. government before they are released to the public. It also directs agencies to set standards for that testing and address related chemical, biological, nuclear, and cybersecurity risks.

"Look, in the wrong hands, AI can make it easier for hackers to exploit vulnerabilities in the software that makes our society run."

The move is the latest step by the Biden administration to set parameters around AI as it makes rapid gains in capability and popularity in an environment of, so far, limited regulation.

The new order goes beyond voluntary commitments made earlier this year by AI companies such as OpenAI, Google-parent Alphabet and Meta Platforms, which pledged to label content that is AI-generated.

"It's already happening. AI devices are being used to deceive people. Deepfakes use AI generated audio on video to smear reputations... I've watched one of me on a couple. I said, 'When the hell did I say that?'"

Biden said his executive order will seek to address the risk of bias and civil rights violations that AI poses.

"That means clear guidance for landlords in federal contractors and federal programs to prevent the bias in A.I. tools that can be used to make decisions on whether or not someone qualifies for housing or benefits or a job."

He also called on Congress to pass legislation to regulate AI, in particular on data privacy.