In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in state operations and the implications for procurement and service delivery. The session highlighted that AI tools are available for use by state agencies, adhering to established procurement rules.
Keith Griggs, who presented during the meeting, emphasized the pervasive nature of AI in everyday applications, noting that many popular platforms like Siri, Netflix, and Google Search utilize AI technologies. He challenged attendees to reconsider their understanding of AI's role in their daily lives, revealing that over 55% of respondents in a survey believed they did not use AI daily, despite its widespread presence.
Griggs elaborated on the transformative potential of generative AI, which can create new content and enhance user experiences. He cited the rapid adoption of tools like ChatGPT, which gained over 100 million active users within two months of launch, as indicative of society's growing reliance on AI technologies. He stressed that AI's integration into various services is expected to expand significantly in the coming years.
The meeting also addressed the importance of ethical considerations in AI deployment. A draft framework for AI use in state government is being developed, focusing on principles such as transparency, data privacy, and human-centered design. This framework aims to guide agencies in responsibly implementing AI technologies while mitigating risks associated with data security and bias.
Griggs concluded by underscoring the need for state agencies to maintain an inventory of AI tools and adhere to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) AI risk management framework. The discussions reflect a proactive approach to harnessing AI's capabilities while ensuring ethical and secure practices in government operations.