Mississippi governor signs AI order after task force bill flops
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves on Wednesday signed an executive order designed to advance governance of artificial intelligence, making his state the latest in recent months to initiate such efforts.
The order, which begins by noting that AI technologies are “already being utilized by state agencies,” directs actions to build a framework for AI’s responsible use, while keeping open avenues for helpful uses of the technology. “[T]he state aspires to fully harness AI to modernize the delivery of service to its citizens in a more efficient and effective manner, while at the same time protecting and respecting the privacy, security and confidentiality rights of all Mississippians,” the order reads.
“AI isn’t going anywhere anytime soon,” Reeves said in a press release. “There are a lot of benefits and risks associated with this technology, and that’s why Mississippi needs to continue preparing for its eventual widespread adoption. This executive order will help to bring together stakeholders, as well as better protect Mississippians’ privacy, security and rights. We’ll continue using innovative technology to modernize state government and make it more efficient.”
The order contains directives found in similar executive orders and early legislation found in other states. It directs the state’s technology bureau, the Department of Information Technology Services, to inventory the AI projects and programs throughout the state government and to evaluate agencies’ AI policies.
The technology department, which is 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 statewide AI policy recommendations.
“By fostering collaboration among state agencies, industry experts, and stakeholders, we are ensuring that AI is implemented ethically, securely, and in a way that builds trust while delivering meaningful improvements for all Mississippians,” Orgeron said in the release.
Reeves’ order arrives after recently failed legislation — Senate Bill 2062 — that would have directed a task force to explore helpful uses of AI inside government and create policy guidelines. State lawmakers also failed last year to pass two other bills that would have regulated the use of AI in advertising political campaigns.
Lawmakers in Mississippi and elsewhere continue to discuss the relevance of AI, and generative AI tools in particular. According to the Narional Conference of State Legislatures, at least 45 states last year introduced legislation pertaining to AI. California alone introduced more than 40 AI bills.
