Virginia has launched its Artificial Intelligence Task Force, aiming to support and advise policymakers on AI technologies. The task force was created by Executive Order 30, signed in January, which established AI education guidelines, implemented policy standards, and called for the formation of such a task force. Ten members have been named, representing state educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and private corporations. They will meet twice a year to advise policymakers and state agencies on the safe, responsible, and cost-effective adoption of AI.
The task force members include John Bailey, founder of Vestigo Partners; Bill Cleveland, former vice mayor of Alexandria; Richard Culatta, CEO of the International Society for Technology in Education; and Naren Ramakrishnan, professor at Virginia Tech. They will provide feedback on policy standards, IT standards, and education guidelines outlined in the executive order. The task force will also advise on AI-related legislation, pilot programs, and other AI developments across levels of government. According to Reeve Bull, Director of the Office of Regulatory Management, the task force will help ensure that Virginia takes advantage of AI opportunities while maintaining sensible guardrails that promote fairness and safety.
Artificial Intelligence Governance: Virginia’s AI Task Force Takes Shape
The state of Virginia has officially launched its Artificial Intelligence (AI) Task Force, aiming to provide guidance and support to policymakers and government agencies on the implementation of AI technologies. This move follows the creation of similar task forces in other states, including Alabama, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, and Washington.
The Virginia AI Task Force was established through Executive Order 30 (EO 30), signed by Governor Glenn Youngkin on January 18, 2024. The order outlined a comprehensive approach to AI adoption, including the development of AI education guidelines for classrooms, implementation of AI policy standards, and the establishment of an AI task force. The task force’s formation marks a significant milestone in Virginia’s efforts to harness the potential of AI while ensuring its safe, responsible, and cost-effective deployment.
The 10-member task force comprises representatives from state educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and private corporations. These individuals will provide expert advice to policymakers and state agencies on the adoption of AI technologies. The group is scheduled to meet twice a year, with additional members potentially being added in the future.
Task Force Membership: A Diverse Group of Experts
The Virginia AI Task Force boasts a diverse membership, comprising experts from various fields related to AI. John Bailey, founder of Vestigo Partners, brings his expertise in AI strategy and implementation. Bill Cleveland, former vice mayor of Alexandria, Va., provides a local government perspective on AI adoption. Richard Culatta, CEO of the International Society for Technology in Education, offers insights into AI’s potential in education.
Other members include Zach Graves, executive director of the Foundation for American Innovation; Sam Hammond, senior economist at the Foundation for American Innovation; Tim Hwang, senior technology fellow at the Institute for Progress; Jamil Jaffer, professor at Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University; Lori Jennings, founder of Jennings ProSearch; Paige Kowalski, executive vice president at the Data Quality Campaign; and Naren Ramakrishnan, professor at Virginia Tech. This diverse group will provide a comprehensive understanding of AI’s implications and opportunities.
Role of the Task Force: Providing Guidance on AI Adoption
The Virginia AI Task Force has been entrusted with providing feedback on various aspects of AI adoption, including policy standards, IT standards, and education guidelines outlined in EO 30. Members will offer input on current and future AI use cases at the state agency level, advising on AI-related legislation, pilot programs, and other AI developments across levels of government.
The task force’s guidance will be instrumental in ensuring that Virginia takes advantage of AI’s opportunities while maintaining “sensible guardrails” that promote fairness and safety. As Director of the Office of Regulatory Management Reeve Bull noted, “The AI Task Force will help ensure that Virginia is taking advantage of the extraordinary opportunities associated with this new technology while maintaining sensible guardrails that promote fairness and safety.”
Future Directions: Harnessing AI’s Potential in Virginia
With the establishment of the AI Task Force, Virginia has taken a significant step towards harnessing the potential of AI. The task force’s guidance will be crucial in shaping the state’s approach to AI adoption, ensuring that its benefits are realized while minimizing its risks.
As the task force begins its work, it is likely to focus on several key areas, including the development of AI policy standards, education guidelines, and IT standards. Additionally, the group may explore opportunities for AI-driven innovation in various sectors, such as healthcare, transportation, and education. By providing a framework for responsible AI adoption, the Virginia AI Task Force can help position the state at the forefront of AI innovation while ensuring that its citizens reap the benefits of this transformative technology.
External Link: Click Here For More
