Key Points:
- Over a third of Texas state agencies are currently using some form of artificial intelligence (AI)
- The Texas Legislature has passed a bill creating an AI advisory council to study and assess the state’s current use of AI, determine the need for a code of ethics, and make recommendations on how to deploy AI technology
- There are concerns about the potential bias, loss of privacy, and lack of transparency in AI systems, as well as the impact of AI on social inequality and decision-making processes
- Experts believe that transparency, evaluation, and enforcement of existing laws are necessary to mitigate the risks and ensure human oversight in the deployment of AI
Artificial intelligence (AI) has become increasingly prevalent in Texas state agencies, with over a third of agencies currently utilizing some form of AI technology. However, concerns have been raised about the potential unintended consequences of AI, including bias, loss of privacy, and lack of transparency. As a response to these concerns, the Texas Legislature has passed House Bill 2060, which creates an AI advisory council responsible for studying the state’s current use of AI, assessing the need for a code of ethics, and making recommendations on the deployment of AI technology.
The advisory council’s role is not to create final policy, but rather to provide oversight and guidance on the use of AI in state agencies. The council is comprised of seven members, including representatives from the state House and Senate, an executive director, and individuals with expertise in AI, ethics, law enforcement, and constitutional law. The council’s findings and recommendations will be submitted to the Legislature by December 2024.
There are concerns about the potential bias and discrimination in AI systems, as well as the impact of AI on social inequality. AI systems can absorb biases present in past data, leading to discriminatory outcomes. In addition, the extensive collection of data by AI systems raises privacy concerns and the fear that humans may lose control over the technology. Experts suggest that transparency and independent evaluation of AI systems through processes like red teaming are necessary to mitigate these risks and ensure human oversight.
Despite concerns, proponents of AI in government argue that it can improve efficiency and effectiveness in various areas, such as case management for social services, policy analysis, and employee training. However, caution must be exercised when integrating AI into decision-making processes that could have significant consequences, such as determining eligibility for social service benefits or parole decisions.
The formation of the AI advisory council is seen as a crucial step in monitoring and regulating the deployment of AI in Texas state agencies. It reflects a growing recognition of the need for oversight and the development of ethical guidelines for the use of AI technology. The council’s recommendations, along with ongoing discussions and research, will shape how AI is utilized in Texas government going forward.