In “Introduction to Artificial Intelligence in State Government,” the NGA Center for Best Practices recently hosted a virtual event aimed at providing state leaders with foundational knowledge about AI technologies and applications in the public sector. During this event, national experts and state leaders gathered to discuss the potential benefits and risks associated with AI in state government. With the absence of overarching regulations from the federal government and Congress, states are taking the lead in developing new AI guidance. Additionally, the event highlighted the emerging use of generative AI, which has gained attention for its open-ended outputs and neural network-based learning associations. However, along with its potential, generative AI also poses risks of “hallucination,” thwarted technical guardrails, and bias. Nonetheless, states are leveraging AI to enhance productivity and efficiency in areas like fraud detection and chatbots, while also implementing policies and guidelines for responsible and safe AI use in government. To support state governments, the NGA and AAAS EPI Center offer resources and assistance in utilizing AI technologies.
Overview
The NGA Center for Best Practices recently hosted a virtual event titled “Introduction to Artificial Intelligence in State Government.” The aim of the event was to provide state leaders with foundational knowledge about AI technologies and applications in the public sector. During the event, national experts and state leaders engaged in discussions on the potential and risks of AI applications, as well as the need for policies and guidelines for responsible AI use. It is important to note that at the federal level, there are currently no overarching regulations on the responsible use of AI. However, many states have taken the lead in developing new AI guidance to ensure responsible and safe use of this technology.
Understanding Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence, often referred to as AI, is a branch of computer science that focuses on creating intelligent machines capable of performing tasks that would typically require human intelligence. There are two main types of AI technologies: narrow AI and general AI. Narrow AI is designed for specific tasks and exhibits intelligence only in those limited areas. General AI, on the other hand, refers to systems that possess the ability to perform any intellectual task that a human can do. While general AI is still a concept in development, narrow AI has already found numerous applications in state government.
Generative AI and its Risks
Generative AI has gained attention in recent years due to its ability to generate open-ended outputs based on neural network-based learning associations. This type of AI is capable of producing highly creative and realistic content, such as images, text, and even music. However, generative AI also poses several risks that need to be addressed. One such risk is the possibility of “hallucination,” where the AI system generates content that may not exist in reality. This can potentially lead to misinformation or false data. Additionally, there is a lack of technical guardrails to ensure that the output generated by the AI aligns with ethical and responsible standards. Finally, generative AI can also be biased, as it learns from existing data, which may contain inherent biases.
AI for Increased Productivity
State governments have recognized the potential of AI in increasing productivity and efficiency in various areas. One such application is the use of AI in fraud detection. AI algorithms can analyze large sets of data and identify patterns and anomalies that may indicate fraudulent activities. This can not only help in preventing financial losses but also save valuable time and resources for government agencies. Another area where AI is being utilized is in the development of chatbots for enhanced efficiency. These AI-powered virtual assistants can interact with citizens, answer frequently asked questions, and provide guidance, reducing the workload on government employees and improving citizen satisfaction.
Policies and Guidelines for AI Use
Recognizing the importance of responsible and safe AI use in government, many states have implemented policies and guidelines for AI. These policies aim to ensure that AI technologies are used ethically and transparently, while also addressing potential risks and concerns. States such as California and New York have set up AI task forces to develop guidelines for AI use in various sectors. These guidelines cover areas such as data privacy, fairness, accountability, and transparency. By implementing such policies and guidelines, states can create a framework for the responsible deployment of AI technologies in the public sector.
Resources and Support for State Governments
The NGA and AAAS EPI Center have been instrumental in providing resources and support to state governments for the utilization of AI. The NGA’s Center for Best Practices offers a wide range of publications, webinars, and toolkits that provide guidance on AI adoption and implementation in state government. Additionally, the AAAS EPI Center provides technical expertise and support to state governments in areas such as AI ethics, algorithmic transparency, and data governance. By leveraging these resources and support, state governments can navigate the complexities of AI and make informed decisions regarding its adoption.
Challenges and Considerations
While AI presents numerous opportunities for state governments, there are also several ethical considerations to be mindful of. One of the primary concerns is ensuring transparency and accountability in AI systems. It is crucial that the decision-making processes and algorithms used in AI systems are explainable and unbiased. Transparency is necessary to build trust with citizens and ensure that AI systems are not making biased or discriminatory decisions. Additionally, the potential job displacement caused by the adoption of AI technologies needs to be addressed. State governments must proactively plan for retraining and upskilling programs to prepare workers for the changing job landscape.
Case Studies
There are several successful AI implementations in state governments that serve as valuable case studies. For instance, in Ohio, the Department of Medicaid implemented AI algorithms to identify potentially fraudulent claims, resulting in significant savings and improved fraud detection rates. Similarly, the state of Utah implemented chatbots to handle citizen inquiries, reducing call volumes and wait times. These case studies highlight the tangible benefits that AI can bring to state governments in terms of cost savings, efficiency improvements, and better citizen services.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, there is immense potential for further advancements and innovations in AI for state government. As AI technologies continue to evolve, state governments can explore applications in areas such as predictive analytics for public safety, AI-assisted decision-making in healthcare, and autonomous vehicles for transportation. Additionally, collaboration between states for knowledge sharing can accelerate the adoption and responsible use of AI in the public sector. By sharing experiences, best practices, and lessons learned, states can collectively drive the successful and ethical implementation of AI technologies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the introduction of AI in state government has the potential to revolutionize the way public services are delivered. From fraud detection to enhanced efficiency through chatbots, AI offers a wide range of benefits. However, it is crucial that state leaders approach AI with caution and responsibility. By implementing policies and guidelines, leveraging available resources and support, and sharing knowledge and experiences, state governments can ensure the responsible use of AI technologies. With state leaders taking an active role in AI implementation, the future of AI in state government looks promising.
