Calls for collaboration on key software issues including AI, cybersecurity, and workforce development

WASHINGTON — January 16, 2018 — Every sector of the US economy relies on software to succeed. From cutting-edge cloud services and data analytics to cybersecurity solutions, businesses of all sizes depend on software to generate new US jobs. Software policy issues are areas where Congress, the Administration, and industry can work together. Today, BSA | The Software Alliance released its 2018 US Policy Agenda to push for collaboration in those areas.

“We expect to see progress on several of our issues in 2018, particularly on artificial intelligence, workforce development, and cybersecurity,” said Victoria Espinel, President and CEO of BSA | The Software Alliance. “People are curious to know how these issues will affect them. We seek to help educate policymakers as they consider policies that will shape the way we use software.”

Software is a primary driver of new opportunities and economic growth in all 50 states. A recent study from Software.org: the BSA Foundation shows software contributes $1.14 trillion to the US economy and supports 10.5 million US jobs. Smart policies that reward innovation, ensure privacy and security, reduce barriers to digital trade, and prepare a diverse workforce for the growing number of technology jobs help will accelerate society’s access to the benefits of software.

BSA stands ready to collaborate with Congress and the Administration on four main policy areas:

• Data Policy: As the risk of cybercrimes increase, BSA supports a robust partnership of government and industry to improve capabilities and readiness to address cybersecurity threats. BSA will also focus on international data issues, including strong provisions that protect the free flow of data and a modern framework for law enforcement access to data.
• Intellectual Property: Software companies account for $63.1 billion in research and development in the US. Policies that properly protect intellectual property encourage this investment and lead to further innovation.
• Workforce Development: The increasing use of and demand for technology is creating new types of jobs that require an evolving set of skills. Digital literacy will become increasingly important in every industry, from agriculture to manufacturing. BSA supports policies that increase STEM education and worker retraining so that our workforce is ready for the future.
• Emerging Technologies: BSA supports a long-term strategy on artificial intelligence innovation that encourages responsible AI deployment, investment in education and workforce development, and a commitment to research funding. We need a meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders to address any challenges that lie ahead.

For more information about BSA’s 2018 Policy Agenda, click here.