FILE – The OpenAI logo is seen on a mobile phone in front of a computer screen showing output from ChatGPT on March 21, 2023 in Boston. A barrage of high-profile cases in New York federal court, including one from The New York Times, will test the future of ChatGPT and other artificial intelligence products. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer, File)
BOSTON (SHNS) – Gov. Maura Haley on Wednesday signed an executive order aimed at studying artificial intelligence and giving her administration the role of the state in implementing and encouraging private sector use of the new technology. Advise about
The Artificial Intelligence Strategic Task Force will make recommendations on how the state can support businesses with the adoption of AI and its use in government.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) refer to the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines and computer systems. This emerging technology includes computer programs that can translate language, chatbots that mimic human conversation, algorithmic recommendation systems that analyze user preferences to recommend movies, music, and other media. do, and includes virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa, as well as other new programs. and innovations.
Over the past decade, technology has advanced rapidly to be widely used across industries.
“Massachusetts has the opportunity to become a world leader in applied AI — but it will take us bringing together the brightest minds in technology, business, education, health care and government. This task force will do just that.” Haley said in a statement. “Members of the task force will collaborate on strategies that keep us ahead of the curve by leveraging AI and GenAI technology, which will bring significant breakthroughs. [benefits to] our economy and communities across the state.
The governor will call for $100 million in his upcoming economic development law to create an “Applied AI Hub” in Massachusetts, to make the state more attractive to the growing AI industry.
The funding will be used for a capital grant program to support the adoption of AI in public policy applications, and support the state’s technology sectors including life sciences, healthcare, financial services, advanced manufacturing, robotics and education. can go. The fund will focus on capital expenditures related to the incubation of AI firms and the development of AI software and hardware technology.
“We have the conditions in place in Massachusetts to solidify our position as a future hub for AI and emerging technologies,” said Jason Snyder, Secretary of Technology Services and Security. “Today’s executive order recognizes the urgent need for the state to engage with AI now, with the understanding that we do our best work together with state policy leaders, the innovation industry, and others. [higher] Education all on the table. We are working on projects that take advantage of this rich ecosystem to advance our entire state.
The task force will consist of 25 members representing the business community, higher education institutions, and state and local governments. The secretaries of the Executive Office of Economic Development and the Executive Office of Technology Services and Security will serve as co-chairs.
Michael Mulligan, UMass’ vice president and chief information officer, and Santiago Garces, Boston’s chief information officer, will serve as co-chairs representing higher education and local government.
In addition, the administration announced a partnership with Northeastern University called “Innovate MA” to leverage the use of AI in state governments.
Northeastern students have begun helping the state implement AI, such as creating a tool for MassHealth call center staff to more effectively navigate laws and regulations for customer support; Helping MassDOT’s Highway Division engineers navigate the voluminous standard operating procedures that govern highway projects will improve the way MBTA RIDE service riders access services, according to Haley’s office. To understand, and predict grant program eligibility for institutions applying for grants from the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs.
Steve Caddish, former chief of staff to Gov. Charlie Baker and chief operating officer of Northeastern University, was seen on Beacon Hill Wednesday as he gave university students a tour of the State House.