Arkansas Launches AI and Analytics Center of Excellence Working Group to Shape Policy and Assess Pilot Projects

Arkansas Launches AI Working Group to Study and Shape Policy

Arkansas has joined the ranks of states diving into the world of artificial intelligence with the launch of the AI and Analytics Center of Excellence (AI CoE). This working group, which will operate as a subcommittee of the state’s Data and Transparency Panel, will focus on studying AI technologies, making policy recommendations, and evaluating pilot projects that utilize AI.

Led by Chief Data Officer Robert McGough, the AI CoE will play a crucial role in shaping the state’s approach to AI. The group will focus on key areas such as efficiency, cost savings, safety, and economic development, with a particular emphasis on accountability, bias mitigation, ethical use, and data privacy.

Two initial pilot projects have been selected to serve as AI use cases for the working group: the Arkansas Division of Workforce Services’ unemployment insurance fraud project and the Arkansas Department of Corrections’ recidivism reduction project. These projects will be evaluated over the course of a year, with a report due to the governor by December 15.

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders emphasized the importance of leveraging AI to improve government services while keeping costs low. She highlighted the need for comprehensive guidelines to ensure the responsible and ethical use of AI in state operations.

With other states like Connecticut and California also establishing AI working groups, Arkansas is positioning itself to stay ahead of the curve in adopting AI technologies. By taking a cautious approach and prioritizing transparency and accountability, the state aims to harness the power of AI to benefit its citizens.