Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves signed an executive order Wednesday aimed at advancing the governance of artificial intelligence, making the state the latest state to launch such an initiative in recent months.
The order begins by noting that AI technology is “already being utilized by state agencies” and paves the way for the beneficial use of the technology while creating a framework for the responsible use of AI. It tells you what to do. “The state will fully leverage AI to modernize the delivery of services to its citizens in a more efficient and effective manner, while protecting and respecting the privacy, security, and confidentiality rights of all Mississippians. “We wish to do so,” the order states. Read.
“AI is not going away anytime soon,” Reeves said in a press release. “This technology has many benefits and risks, which is why Mississippi must continue to prepare for its eventual widespread adoption. We will continue to leverage innovative technology to modernize state government and increase efficiency.”
The order includes directives found in similar executive orders and earlier legislation found in other states. It directs the state’s technology agency, the Office of Information Technology Services, to develop an inventory of AI projects and programs across state government and evaluate agency AI policies.
The technology division, headed by state Chief Information Officer Craig Orgeron, is also tasked with coordinating with state agencies and the private sector to develop a set of recommendations for statewide AI policy.
“By fostering collaboration between state agencies, industry experts, and stakeholders, we will ensure that AI is ethically and safely delivered in a way that builds trust while delivering meaningful improvements to all Mississippians.” I guarantee it will be implemented,” Orgeron said in the release.
Reeves’ order comes after the recent failure of a bill (Senate Bill 2062) directing a task force to consider beneficial uses of AI within government and develop policy guidelines. Last year, the state Legislature also failed to pass two other bills regulating the use of AI in political campaign advertising.
Lawmakers in Mississippi and other states continue to debate the relevance of AI, particularly generative AI tools. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, at least 45 states introduced AI-related legislation last year. More than 40 AI bills have been introduced in California alone.
