McKee signs executive order for AI task force. Here's what it will do.

Providence Journal staff
·2 min read
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PROVIDENCE - Gov. Dan McKee signed an executive order setting the stage for the state to potentially take further advantage of artificial intelligence.

“Rhode Island recognizes that the rise of AI technology will enhance future government operations and change the way we do business,” McKee said Thursday.

“Rather than simply react to the changes in the information technology landscape, I want Rhode Island to be a leader as this field evolves. This executive order is the first step in being proactive and preparing state government for this new technology," he said.

“When it comes to technology, data security, and individual privacy continue to be our top priorities," said the state's current $237,443.96 a year Chief Digital Officer Brian Tardiff.

"By making our first order of business the crafting of a State Code of Ethics for this work, we are ensuring a human-centric focus that minimizes bias and maximizes support and resources," he said.

ChatGPT is a well-known example of generative artificial intelligence, which refers specifically to AI tools that use algorithms to generate outputs and create content that can include text, audio, code, images and more. (Credit: Olivier Morin, AFP via Getty Images)
ChatGPT is a well-known example of generative artificial intelligence, which refers specifically to AI tools that use algorithms to generate outputs and create content that can include text, audio, code, images and more. (Credit: Olivier Morin, AFP via Getty Images)

Order establishes a new AI task force

The executive order anticipates McKee's appointment of a new task force, chaired by former Congressman Jim Langevin, to assess "the risks and opportunities presented by the proliferation of AI and advise state policy makers." Langevin is the current head of the Institute for Cybersecurity & Emerging Technologies at Rhode Island College.

It calls for the creation of a "Center of Excellence for AI and Data within state government" and a "single state data governance structure" for data-heavy agencies, such as those under the umbrella of the Executive Office of Health & Human Services.

Here's what this new arm of government, and the new chief data officer, will do:

  • Explore "efficient and effective use of data and analytics by agencies to enhance government operations."

  • Create a "state code of ethics for AI to minimize bias and create a framework that supports and guides state employees."

  • Develop, in consultation, with the Institute for Cybersecurity & Emerging Technologies at Rhode Island College "a risk analysis and safeguards for the use of AI, including predictions about future trends and advancements."

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This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: McKee signs order to look at using AI in state government