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California lawmakers recently approved a range of legislative proposals to regulate artificial intelligence (AI), ban deepfakes, and safeguard workers from potential exploitation due to rapid technological advances. These measures are part of a broader legislative effort in California to address the rapidly evolving AI industry and its implications. Among the notable proposals is a bill targeting deepfakes in elections, requiring social media platforms to remove misleading AI-generated content surrounding Election Day, and mandating transparency in AI-altered campaign ads. Additionally, other bills focus on AI-generated child sexual abuse material and ensuring AI detection tools are available to users.

The legislation also seeks to set safety protocols for large AI models, requiring developers to disclose the data used in their models to enhance transparency and prevent misuse. In light of the Hollywood actors’ strike, lawmakers introduced protections for workers at risk of being replaced by AI, including those in the entertainment industry. The initiatives demonstrate California’s effort to balance fostering innovation in AI with addressing its ethical and societal risks, such as bias, data privacy, and workforce displacement. The bill’s unprecedented scope has sparked significant reactions from both the tech industry and AI experts.

Why Read This Article?

Policy implications: This article highlights legislative efforts to regulate AI, a central issue for public sector AI governance.

Ethical concerns: Focuses on AI-related risks, such as deepfakes and bias, relevant to public sector challenges.

AI transparency: Demonstrates the importance of disclosing data and ensuring AI use aligns with ethical guidelines.

This week in government technology, AI is driving transformative advancements across the public sector. In Los Angeles, the city is implementing long-term AI policies through its new AI Roadmap, while the “Driving Public Sector Innovation” video series highlights how AI and cloud computing are improving decision-making and service delivery across agencies like the U.S. Navy and Veterans Affairs. The Texas Office of the Attorney General is using AI to streamline child support casework, and the Veterans Health Administration is exploring AI and smart home technologies to enhance veteran care.

Los Angeles is Shaping AI Policy for the Long Term

At the Los Angeles Digital Government Summit, public and private sector experts emphasized the critical need for robust AI policies that address immediate concerns and adapt to future developments. AI is becoming a cornerstone of public sector operations, streamlining processes and enhancing decision-making. Los Angeles CIO Ted Ross described AI as a “seismic shift,” highlighting the importance of staff engaging deeply with the technology. Panelists underscored the need to verify AI-generated outputs and ensure employees are well-prepared to collaborate with AI tools. Central to the discussion was the city’s AI Roadmap, unveiled in June, which outlines how Los Angeles plans to integrate AI into city services.

Driving Public Sector Innovation Video Series

Integrating AI, cloud computing, and advanced database technologies is transforming government operations, enabling more efficient decision-making, enhanced service delivery, and stronger cybersecurity. In a new video series titled “Driving Public Sector Innovation,” leaders from government and industry highlight how these technologies improve outcomes across various sectors, from the U.S. Navy’s data-driven decision-making to the Department of Veterans Affairs’ efforts to reduce clinician burnout. The series showcases how AI and database solutions empower agencies to address complex challenges, enhance security, and deliver more responsive services.

Texas Office of the Attorney General Leverages AI to Enhance Child Support Casework Efficiency

The Texas Office of the Attorney General (OAG) developed an AI-powered search tool to help child support division field case workers reduce time spent on research and legal documentation. Built on the Microsoft Azure Cosmos DB platform, the tool consolidates nonconfidential documents into a searchable knowledge base, saving significant time and enabling faster responses. At the 2024 TASSCC conference, CIO Tina McLeod and Chief Data Officer Antonia Hernandez highlighted the tool’s success in improving efficiency while safeguarding data accuracy. This initiative demonstrates the potential for AI to streamline complex tasks and can be replicated in other agencies.

Veteran Care and AI Innovation

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is exploring healthcare for veterans through innovative technologies like AI, smart homes, and deep learning models. These initiatives aim to improve care, reduce long-term care needs, and provide early detection of health issues such as skin cancer. Joe Ronzio, VHA’s deputy chief health technology officer, highlighted the importance of smart home technologies that monitor veterans’ health within their homes, helping them stay active and safe. While acknowledging the potential risks of AI, Ronzio remains optimistic about its future role in enhancing veterans’ healthcare, emphasizing the need for cautious implementation.

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OpenAI has announced its first federal agency customer for ChatGPT Enterprise, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). USAID aims to leverage this technology to reduce administrative burdens and facilitate more accessible partnerships with new and local organizations. This move follows OpenAI’s recent achievement of FedRAMP High Authorization, which allows its services to operate securely within Microsoft’s Azure Government cloud. OpenAI is also pursuing FedRAMP Moderate accreditation, enabling ChatGPT Enterprise to handle moderately sensitive federal data outside of Azure Government.

This partnership aligns with USAID’s increasing focus on artificial intelligence under the leadership of Administrator Samantha Power, who has been actively engaging with AI companies like OpenAI and its competitors to explore the potential applications of generative AI in aid distribution. OpenAI is also expanding its work within the U.S. government, participating in hackathons and collaborations with agencies like the General Services Administration (GSA) to demonstrate AI’s potential to enhance operational efficiency across federal, state, and local government levels.

Why Read This Article?

Federal AI Adoption: The article showcases a tangible example of AI integration within a major federal agency.

Administrative Efficiency Focus: The article emphasizes AI’s role in reducing administrative burdens, addressing a critical concern for public sector leaders.

Security and Compliance Considerations: The FedRAMP accreditation process underscores the importance of meeting federal security standards.

This week in government technology, AI continues to drive significant changes across the public sector. Key stories include the Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s AI-driven transformation, California’s controversial AI regulation bill, and the GSA’s new fellowship focused on AI projects. AI also enhances Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport operations, improving efficiency and decision-making. These developments highlight how governments increasingly rely on AI to innovate and address challenges across various sectors.

Mapping Government’s AI Evolution

Governments across the U.S. are increasingly focused on artificial intelligence, creating task forces, drafting legislation, and mandating AI-driven projects to keep pace with this rapidly advancing technology. Government Technology launched an interactive AI tracker to document these efforts, revealing that each jurisdiction takes a unique approach tailored to its local needs. From AI governance frameworks to dedicated leadership roles, state and local governments are exploring how AI can be integrated into public service and policymaking. This dynamic landscape continues to evolve as more initiatives emerge.

How AI is Reshaping Commodity Futures Trading Commission Oversight

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is undergoing a significant transformation in its oversight and enforcement capabilities, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence and data analytics. Led by Chief AI and Data Officer Ted Kaouk, the agency is leveraging AI to detect fraud, improve data quality, and enhance market surveillance. Kaouk emphasizes that this is a marathon effort to ensure the CFTC’s regulatory framework remains robust in an increasingly complex financial landscape. Key initiatives include AI pilots focused on identifying disruptive trading behaviors and the integration of AI governance within the agency’s data division.

GSA Launches AI-Centric Digital Corps Fellowship

The General Services Administration (GSA) announced that its 2024 U.S. Digital Corps cohort will prioritize artificial intelligence, with over 40 out of 70 fellows assigned to AI-focused projects. This two-year fellowship aims to advance crucial federal technology initiatives, including cybersecurity at the Department of Homeland Security and disaster support at FEMA. Fellows will collaborate with 19 agencies, including new partners like the IRS and the U.S. Geological Survey, to help drive innovation and enhance services for the American public. The initiative aligns with the Biden administration’s National AI Talent Surge.

California AI Bill Faces Industry Pushback

California lawmakers have amended a groundbreaking bill, S.B. 1047, that would impose new regulations on artificial intelligence, requiring companies to test the safety of AI technologies before public release. The bill, which has sparked intense debate in Silicon Valley, allows the state’s attorney general to sue companies if their AI causes serious harm. Although amendments have been made to address tech industry concerns, critics worry that the legislation could stifle AI development. Several Democratic members of Congress have urged California Governor Gavin Newsom to veto S.B. 1047. The bill must pass the legislature by August 31, and Newsom has until September 30 to sign or veto it.

AI Enhances Operations at Atlanta Airport

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has successfully implemented a new business intelligence dashboard that aggregates data from 11 critical operational areas, significantly improving problem-solving and decision-making. The AI-powered dashboard integrates weather updates, passenger forecasts, and flight activity information, reducing the time needed to gain actionable insights by over 80 percent. Its success has led to plans for expansion, focusing on deeper data integration, cleansing, and personalization for different operational departments. The airport’s IT team envisions AI playing an even more significant role in future developments, enhancing passenger experience, security, and sustainability.

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A recent survey by the National Association of State Technology Directors highlights the mixed reactions of state IT leaders towards integrating AI technologies, particularly generative AI. While many state governments are actively developing AI policies and re-organizing IT departments to incorporate AI, others remain cautious or skeptical about the technology’s current capabilities and future potential. The survey, which included responses from 42 states, found that many states focus on defining AI and developing governance frameworks to manage its use, with cybersecurity, citizen portals, and administrative efficiency seen as promising areas for AI deployment.

Despite the enthusiasm for AI’s potential, state IT leaders also express concerns about AI’s ability to deliver on its promises. Challenges include perceived risks, staff skill gaps, and budget constraints, with some leaders emphasizing the importance of having a robust governance framework to navigate these issues. Additionally, states are forming partnerships with outside organizations, including higher education and other states, to strengthen their AI strategies. While optimism about AI’s ability to improve public services exists, there is a clear call for caution and strategic planning to avoid unintended consequences.

Why Read This Article?

Insight into Current AI Adoption: The article provides a snapshot of how state governments approach AI, highlighting different levels of enthusiasm and skepticism among state IT leaders.

AI in Key Public Sectors: The article highlights AI’s potential in areas such as cybersecurity, citizen portals, and administrative efficiency, showcasing its diverse applications in public sector operations.

Strategic Caution: The emphasis on the need for robust governance frameworks and careful planning reflects the cautious approach many state leaders are taking to ensure AI’s responsible implementation.

In this week’s edition of This Week in Government Technology, we explore the growing influence of AI in public sector initiatives across the United States. From the launch of NACo’s AI Leadership Academy to empower county officials to California’s strategic partnership with Nvidia to enhance AI education and the deployment of AI technology by AC Transit to address illegal parking, these stories highlight the dynamic and diverse applications of AI in governance.

NACo Launches AI Leadership Academy for County Officials

The National Association of Counties (NACo) has launched the Artificial Intelligence Leadership Academy, a six-week online program designed to equip county government employees with the knowledge and tools to effectively implement AI in public service. The curriculum, developed in collaboration with industry experts and academics, addresses key aspects of AI, including understanding its capabilities and mitigating risks such as bias and misinformation. The program aims to empower government leaders with practical and actionable insights to navigate the challenges of AI in governance, enhancing their ability to lead in an increasingly digital landscape.

California and Nvidia Expand AI Resources in Education

California has partnered with Nvidia to enhance artificial intelligence education and resources across the state’s colleges, particularly focusing on community colleges. This collaboration aims to equip students, educators, and professionals with cutting-edge AI skills through new curricula, certifications, AI labs, and workshops. The initiative is designed to prepare Californians for emerging roles in AI, including opportunities within state government, and to ensure they can leverage this rapidly advancing technology for career advancement.

AC Transit Deploys AI Technology to Curb Illegal Parking

The Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District (AC Transit) in Northern California has implemented AI-powered cameras on its buses to detect vehicles illegally parked at bus stops. The program began on August 9, 2024, and aims to improve transit efficiency by identifying and penalizing violators. Violators will receive warning notices initially, but starting October 7, 2024, citations with a fine of $110 will be issued. The AI technology captures video and images of violations, which law enforcement reviews before sending citations. Privacy measures are in place to ensure that non-violation footage is quickly deleted.

The Role of AI in Enhancing Fire Safety

A year after the devastating wildfire in Lahaina, Hawaii, which claimed 102 lives, significant efforts have been made to rebuild and enhance disaster preparedness, with artificial intelligence playing an increasingly important role. The state has introduced new firefighting policies, expanded grassland management, and upgraded the electrical grid with AI-powered cameras to detect early signs of fire. However, despite these advancements, critical vulnerabilities remain due to financial constraints. Residents worry about the island’s readiness for future fires while debates persist over funding necessary safety improvements, including a proposed climate impact fee.

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The Beta District, a technology innovation zone in Central Ohio, is positioning itself as a transportation and agricultural technology leader by leveraging the region’s strengths. Doug McCollough, the newly appointed executive director, emphasizes the interconnectedness of mobility and agriculture, particularly through advancements in autonomy and electrification. With a focus on smart mobility corridors and high-capacity communications infrastructure, The Beta District aims to differentiate itself from other tech hubs by concentrating on areas with a competitive edge, such as manufacturing and agriculture.

McCollough highlights that Central Ohio’s diverse industries, including a strong agricultural sector, are primed for innovation, especially with integrating modern technologies like autonomous vehicles and smart farming equipment. The region’s historical expertise in manufacturing and smart cities further bolsters its potential to become a leading tech hub in the United States. The Beta District’s vision is to play a crucial role in enhancing American competitiveness through strategic and region-specific technological advancements.

Why Read This Article?

Regional Innovation: The article showcases how regional strengths can be leveraged to create specialized tech hubs.

Technological Integration: It explores the integration of contemporary technologies in traditional sectors like agriculture.

Economic Development: The initiative’s potential to drive regional economic growth through targeted technological innovation could inspire similar approaches in public sector AI strategies.

Leadership Vision: The article provides insights into how leadership can guide and shape the development of tech zones.

This week’s blog explores key developments in AI across various levels of government. The National Association of Counties (NACo) released the AI County Compass, a report guiding local governments on safe AI integration. Francisco Ramirez of Red Hat highlights the transformative potential of AI-powered customer service tools in the public sector. New York City is rapidly expanding its use of algorithmic tools to enhance public services, with a strong focus on transparency and accountability. Meanwhile, the Senate Commerce Committee advanced several bipartisan AI bills, reflecting growing federal efforts to establish a robust AI infrastructure despite some partisan tensions.

A Guide to Safe AI Implementation for Local Governments

The National Association of Counties (NACo) has published a report from its AI Exploratory Committee, launched in May 2023, to guide local governments in safely integrating artificial intelligence. The AI County Compass report provides a comprehensive toolkit focused on generative AI (GenAI). It includes ethical frameworks, policy recommendations, and practical use cases, addressing both the benefits and challenges of GenAI. The toolkit emphasizes enhanced productivity, cost savings, and improved service delivery while tackling governance, compliance, and bias prevention issues. The NACo will host quarterly focus groups to update the toolkit based on user feedback, ensuring it remains a dynamic resource for local government leaders navigating AI adoption.

Transforming Public Sector Customer Experience with AI

In his op-ed “How AI Will Power Customer Experience Gains,” Francisco Ramirez, Chief Architect of State and Local Government for Red Hat, discusses how state and local governments can leverage AI to enhance customer service. He emphasizes that AI-powered digital assistants and chatbots can significantly improve constituent interactions by providing around-the-clock support, personalized experiences, and faster processing times. Despite the challenges of data quality, privacy, and budget constraints, Ramirez believes that these AI applications offer a promising, low-risk starting point for governments to enhance service delivery and meet modern customer expectations.

How Algorithms Are Shaping New York City’s Future

New York City has significantly increased its use of algorithmic tools across various government departments, rising from eight to 46 in just a decade. These tools enhance public services in child welfare, education, public health, and emergency response, making the city more efficient and responsive. The city’s Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI) is focused on transparency and accountability, requiring annual reports on using these tools under Local Law 35 of 2022. As New York positions itself as a global leader in AI and algorithmic governance, it continues to refine its processes to ensure these technologies are used responsibly and effectively to serve its residents.

AI Legislation Moves Forward in Senate as Debate Over Regulation Intensifies

The Senate Commerce, Science, and Technology Committee recently advanced several bipartisan bills focused on artificial intelligence, reflecting the growing importance of AI in U.S. economic and national security strategies. Chaired by Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., the committee endorsed legislation fostering public-private partnerships to enhance AI innovation. However, the session also highlighted emerging partisan tensions, particularly with Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, who criticized the proposed regulations as an overreach that could hinder U.S. competitiveness. Cruz’s amendment to rescind President Biden’s executive order on AI was rejected. Among the bills advanced were the CREATE AI Act and the NSF AI Education Act, signaling a concerted effort to establish a robust AI infrastructure.

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The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has initiated a significant reorganization, appointing Micky Tripathi as the new Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy. This move places Tripathi in charge of a new departmentwide technology office focusing on technology, data, and artificial intelligence (AI) portfolios. The reorganization aims to enhance the integration and management of AI across the department, moving responsibilities previously held by the Assistant Secretary of Administration to Tripathi’s Office of the Chief Technology Officer.

Tripathi’s immediate priority is to fill critical positions, including chief technology, data, and AI officers, to establish a robust organizational structure. Following this, the focus will shift to ensuring AI compliance with federal guidelines and setting comprehensive policies to foster the appropriate use of AI technologies. This restructured approach is expected to streamline HHS’s data strategy and AI initiatives, ensuring that the technology enhances public health services while mitigating compliance risks and biases.

Why Read This Article?

AI Integration and Policy: Insights on how a major federal department structures its AI initiatives can provide valuable lessons for state and local government agencies.

Leadership in AI: The focus on filling key AI roles highlights the importance of leadership and expertise in successfully implementing AI technologies in the public sector.

Organizational Strategy: HHS’s restructuring offers a case study of how large organizations can reorganize to better leverage emerging technologies.

This week’s highlights explore critical advancements and regulatory efforts in the AI landscape. California’s proposed “Safe and Secure Innovation for Frontier Artificial Intelligence Models Act,” led by state Senator Scott Wiener, aims to regulate AI development through the Frontier Model Division and CalCompute program. While supported by AI safety groups, it faces opposition from tech giants like Google and Meta, who argue it could stifle innovation. In response to this bill, tech leaders express concerns about its potential impact on startups and liability for AI misuse. Meanwhile, Washington state has established an 18-member task force to balance AI innovation with proper oversight, discussing topics like intellectual property and bias. Additionally, Apple joins other tech giants in adopting the Biden administration’s voluntary AI safeguards, testing AI systems for security and discrimination risks. These efforts underscore the ongoing challenge of balancing AI’s transformative potential with its significant risks.

California’s Legislative Push for AI Safety and Security

California’s proposed “Safe and Secure Innovation for Frontier Artificial Intelligence Models Act,” spearheaded by state Senator Scott Wiener, aims to regulate the development and deployment of advanced AI models. The bill seeks to preemptively address the risks associated with AI by establishing the Frontier Model Division, a regulatory body, and the CalCompute program to support large-scale AI model development. While the bill has garnered support from AI safety advocacy groups, it faces opposition from tech giants like Google and Meta, who argue it could stifle innovation and disproportionately burden AI model developers. The bill underscores the urgent need to balance AI’s potential benefits with its significant risks, including misuse of autonomous weapons and cybersecurity threats.

Tech Industry Responds to California’s Proposed AI Legislation

In response to Senator Scott Wiener’s “Safe and Secure Innovation for Frontier Artificial Intelligence Models Act,” tech leaders express concerns about potential negative impacts on innovation. The bill aims to regulate AI development to prevent misuse but has been criticized by figures such as Garry Tan of Y Combinator and Andrew Ng of Google Brain for potentially stifling AI advancements. Despite amendments to address industry feedback, critics argue the legislation could hinder startups and impose unfair liabilities on developers for third-party misuse of their AI models. Wiener remains open to further revisions, emphasizing the bill’s narrower scope compared to the European Union’s AI regulations.

Washington’s New Task Force Takes Action

Washington state has established an 18-member task force to address the growing influence of artificial intelligence, with its first meeting scheduled for Friday. The task force, consisting of state lawmakers, tech industry leaders, advocacy group representatives, and government officials, aims to balance fostering AI innovation with ensuring proper regulation. Topics for discussion include intellectual property, AI oversight, bias, and racial disparities, transparency, and support for AI advancements. Attorney General Bob Ferguson highlighted Washington’s leadership role in technology and the importance of developing policies that prioritize public interests. The task force will meet biannually over the next two years, culminating in a policy recommendation report by July 2026.

Apple Joins Tech Giants in Adopting Biden’s AI Safeguards

Apple Inc. has agreed to adopt the Biden administration’s voluntary AI safeguards, joining other tech giants like Amazon, Microsoft, and OpenAI. These measures involve testing AI systems for security flaws, discriminatory tendencies, and national security risks, with the results to be shared transparently with governments, civil society, and academia. This move comes as Apple plans to integrate OpenAI’s ChatGPT into its iPhone voice-command assistant. While the guidelines are not enforceable, they represent an effort by the administration to encourage responsible AI development amid growing concerns about AI’s potential dangers and discriminatory impacts.