LGBT Tech Submits Comments to OSTP regarding Regulatory Reform on Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Shae Gardner
7 minutes ago
2 min read

On October 27, LGBT Tech submitted comments to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) in response to its Request for Information; Regulatory Reform on Artificial Intelligence.

Our submission underscores the urgent need for AI systems and regulations that recognize, represent, and protect LGBTQ+ individuals. Our comments call for federal leadership across five key areas:

Federal civil rights protections must explicitly extend to sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data. Many anti-discrimination laws were written before the emergence of algorithmic systems, leaving enforcement gaps when AI produces biased or proxy-based outcomes that harm LGBTQ+ individuals. OSTP should work to provide clear, technology-specific guidance on how existing laws apply to AI systems.
AI that fails to recognize or represent LGBTQ+ people cannot be considered effective or equitable. Systems trained on incomplete or biased data routinely misclassify, exclude, or erase LGBTQ+ identities, undermining their reliability and fairness. We urge OSTP to promote inclusive data practices, representative research, and community consultation at every stage of AI design and governance.
Modern AI systems challenge outdated privacy frameworks. OSTP should help establish federal guidance that protects both direct and inferred SOGI data from misuse and prohibits its sale through unregulated data brokers. Protecting the privacy of LGBTQ+ individuals is essential to building public trust in AI systems.
AI-driven content moderation tools are liable to over-filter LGBTQ+ speech, mislabeling discussions of identity, health, or education as “explicit” or “negative.” We urge OSTP to reaffirm the importance of Section 230 protections and ensure that automated systems preserve free expression while combating genuine harm.
Equitable AI depends on human understanding as much as technical precision. OSTP should promote AI literacy initiatives for both developers and the public to strengthen safety, accountability, and user empowerment, particularly in the face of AI-driven misinformation and harassment.

Our full comment submission can be downloaded here: