Governor Wes Moore signs executive order for ethical use of AI in Maryland

ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Maryland Governor Wes Moore announced on Monday a starting point for addressing the use of artificial intelligence in state government, as well as efforts to strengthen cybersecurity.

The governor signed an executive order that he described as establishing core principles and values ​​“to ensure that we integrate AI into the work of state government in a responsible and ethical manner.”

“These announcements mark the beginning of our work, not the end, and we look forward to working with the General Assembly to advance legislation focused on AI,” Moore, a Democrat, said at a conference in press, two days before the Legislative Assembly. meets for its annual 90-day session.

The rapidly developing technology has attracted the attention of state lawmakers across the country.

“Here’s the thing: This technology is already here, the only question is whether we’re going to be reactive or proactive right now,” Moore said. “Our administration will always choose to lead.”

Moore compared these initiatives to getting a software update on a cell phone in a rapidly changing world.

“I think of it this way, my iPhone tells me to update it every eight weeks, but we haven’t updated the way government works in the last eight years,” the governor said . “How can we win the next decade if the tools we have to win the decade are the tools of the last decade?”

The order highlights the need for justice and equity in the state’s use of AI, saying state agencies “must take into account that AI systems may perpetuate harmful biases and take steps to mitigate these risks.”

The order also says the state is committed to exploring ways in which AI can be leveraged to improve state services. It also emphasizes that individuals’ right to privacy “should be preserved by design in the state’s use of AIwhile ensuring that the creation, collection and processing of data is secure and complies with all applicable laws and regulations.

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The order creates an AI subcabinet that will develop a plan to create appropriate guardrails for agencies’ use of AI.

“We look forward to working with all of our agencies to ensure responsible and productive use of AI in Maryland,” said Katie Savage, secretary of the Maryland Department of Information Technology. “THE (decree) is just the first step in what will undoubtedly be a longer journey for the Moore-Miller administration in close partnership with the General Assembly to govern and harness AI. »

This order was one of several initiatives presented by the governor.

Moore also announced the creation of the Maryland Cybersecurity Task Force, which he said will bring together cybersecurity experts from the state Department of Information Technology, the Maryland Military Department and the Maryland Department of Emergency Management. They will work with the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security to foster a whole-of-government approach to cybersecurity in the state.

LARGO, MARYLAND – SEPTEMBER 14: Governor Wes Moore (D-MD) introduces U.S. President Joe Biden before speaking on the economy at Prince George’s Community College September 14, 2023 in Largo, Maryland. Biden spoke about his economic plan, “Bidenomics,” o

Moore also announced other technology-related initiatives, including a new Maryland digital service. The new team will take charge of the redesign of the website and applications.

Moore also announced a new digital accessibility policy, which will ensure equal access to state-acquired and developed information technologies and services for state residents.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.