What does AI mean for Open Source?
The recent meteoric rise of LLMs (Large Language Models) and associated tools was largely unexpected and surprising to most. The rapid ascent of this technology has caught many software developers unawares, leaving them suddenly somewhat ignorant, and arguably under-skilled. LLMs, whilst still advancing, have recently demonstrated impressive capabilities in their ability to assist software developers in their day-to-day tasks (e.g., coding new features, and locating and fixing issues). However, the use and adoption of LLMs presents many larger challenges for society as a whole; many of which are not in themselves technical concerns. This paper examines the current and perceived impact of this technology in the context of Open Source. We identify several social, economic, environmental, political, legal, and technical concerns regarding the use of LLMs in Open Source projects. We contribute guidance around defining an AI Policy for Open Source projects. We further offer an AI Policy Score Card to assist projects in clearly defining and declaring how they wish to work with AI or not.