AI Regulation: Insights from Other States

Published Date: 10/07/2024

Kentucky lawmakers explore how other states are regulating and utilizing artificial intelligence, learning about its potential benefits and risks.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been making waves in various industries, and governments are no exception. Recently, Kentucky lawmakers on the General Assembly's Artificial Intelligence Task Force gathered to discuss how other states are using AI and potential legal frameworks for the technology. The task force's first meeting featured presentations from technology and government experts, who shared insights on the history of AI, its applications in state governments, and existing legislation in other states.

Ryan Harkins, senior director of public policy for Microsoft, delved into the history of AI development and relevant legislation. He explained that generative AI, which creates texts, images, or other content, can be used to summarize texts, go beyond traditional keyword searches, and create coding, among other benefits. However, Harkins also warned that some individuals may exploit AI, emphasizing the need for laws and regulations to ensure everyone in the marketplace adheres to basic safety and security standards.

Doug Robinson, executive director of the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO), showcased the various ways states are currently utilizing AI in their operations. For instance, AI can be used to translate government websites into multiple languages, saving time and effort. Robinson also mentioned that AI-related legislation was introduced in 40 states this year.

Sen. Amanda Mays Bledsoe, a task force co-chair, and Sen. Reggie Thomas, a task force member, sponsored a bill earlier this year aimed at limiting the use of 'deep fakes' or deceptive AI to influence elections in Kentucky. Although the legislation did not pass, it highlights the growing concern about AI interference in elections.

The issue of AI interference in elections is not limited to Kentucky, as the U.S. Senate Rules Committee advanced three bills in May to address the use of AI in elections. States surveyed by NASCIO have expressed concerns about AI-generated disinformation, biased outputs, inadequate data privacy, and security.

Lawmakers on the committee had several questions about AI regulation at the state level. Rep. Josh Bray, a task force co-chair, inquired about the potential of AI to improve state government functions, such as addressing the unemployment services backlog built up during the coronavirus pandemic. He also raised concerns about fraud increasing under an AI system.

Robinson viewed AI as a 'double-edged sword,' as it can be used to detect fraud but also employed by adversaries in cybersecurity attacks. The task force's next meeting is scheduled for August 13, and lawmakers have a lot to discuss during the interim session.

This is not a small topic, as it has widespread implications in the private and public sectors. Lawmakers on the task force are committed to being mindful of both aspects as they navigate the complex world of AI regulation.

FAQs:

Q: What is generative AI?

A: Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence that creates texts, images, or other content.

Q: How are states using AI in their operations?

A: States are using AI to translate government websites into multiple languages, detect fraud, and improve government functions, among other applications.

Q: What are the concerns about AI in elections?

A: Concerns about AI in elections include the potential for AI-generated disinformation, biased outputs, and inadequate data privacy and security.

Q: What is the role of laws and regulations in AI development?

A: Laws and regulations are necessary to ensure that everyone in the marketplace adheres to basic safety and security standards and to mitigate potential risks of harm.

Q: What is the goal of the Kentucky Artificial Intelligence Task Force?

A: The goal of the Kentucky Artificial Intelligence Task Force is to discuss and explore the potential benefits and risks of AI and develop a legal framework for its use in the state.

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