California is taking a bold step forward in harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve public services and tackle some of the state’s most pressing challenges. Under new agreements announced by Governor Gavin Newsom, the state will partner with five companies, including tech giants OpenAI and Anthropic, to develop generative AI tools that can reduce traffic jams, enhance road safety, and provide better services to the public.
“It is a very good sign that a lot of these companies are putting their focus on using GenAI for governmental service delivery,” said Amy Tong, secretary of government operations for California. This partnership marks a significant milestone in California’s goal to position itself as a global leader in AI technology. With 35 of the world’s top 50 AI companies already located in California, the state is well-poised to pioneer the use of AI in public services.
The first step in this partnership will be a six-month internal trial, where the generative AI tools will be tested and evaluated by state workers. The companies involved will be paid $1 for their proposals, allowing the state to reassess which tools can be fully implemented under new contracts. It is worth noting that all the tools being developed are considered low risk, meaning they do not interact with confidential data or personal information.
Generative AI, a branch of AI that can create new content, holds immense potential to improve government efficiency. However, there is also an urgent need for safeguards and oversight to mitigate risks. The experience in New York City, where an AI-powered chatbot created by the city provided false guidance and advised companies to violate the law, serves a cautionary tale. As AI technology rapidly evolves, concerns about job loss, misinformation, privacy, and automation bias have also emerged.
California’s approach to incorporating generative AI into public services aims to build public trust. Companies involved in developing AI tools for the state will be required to disclose the large language models they use, ensuring transparency and accountability. The state’s Department of Transportation is particularly interested in tools that can analyze traffic data and propose solutions to reduce highway congestion and enhance road safety. The Department of Tax and Fee Administration seeks an AI tool to streamline their call center operations and improve service efficiency.
Nick Maduros, director of the Department of Tax and Fee Administration, emphasizes that these AI tools are meant to assist state workers, not replace them. The goal is to enhance their ability to serve the public by providing them with relevant information in real-time. For instance, AI technology could listen to calls at the call center, pull up specific tax code information, and present it to the worker, eliminating the need for manual searches. This not only saves time but also ensures accuracy and consistency in providing information to callers.
While there is no specific timeline for deploying these AI tools, the state of California is committed to moving swiftly. “The whole essence of using GenAI is it doesn’t take years,” said Amy Tong. “GenAI doesn’t wait for you.” This ambitious endeavor exemplifies California’s dedication to utilizing cutting-edge technology for the betterment of its residents and serves as an inspiration for other states exploring the potential of AI in the public sector.
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