This Week in Government Technology – August 11th-18th, 2024

This week in government technology, AI continues to drive significant changes across the public sector. Key stories include the Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s AI-driven transformation, California’s controversial AI regulation bill, and the GSA’s new fellowship focused on AI projects. AI also enhances Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport operations, improving efficiency and decision-making. These developments highlight how governments increasingly rely on AI to innovate and address challenges across various sectors.

Mapping Government’s AI Evolution

Governments across the U.S. are increasingly focused on artificial intelligence, creating task forces, drafting legislation, and mandating AI-driven projects to keep pace with this rapidly advancing technology. Government Technology launched an interactive AI tracker to document these efforts, revealing that each jurisdiction takes a unique approach tailored to its local needs. From AI governance frameworks to dedicated leadership roles, state and local governments are exploring how AI can be integrated into public service and policymaking. This dynamic landscape continues to evolve as more initiatives emerge.

How AI is Reshaping Commodity Futures Trading Commission Oversight

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is undergoing a significant transformation in its oversight and enforcement capabilities, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence and data analytics. Led by Chief AI and Data Officer Ted Kaouk, the agency is leveraging AI to detect fraud, improve data quality, and enhance market surveillance. Kaouk emphasizes that this is a marathon effort to ensure the CFTC’s regulatory framework remains robust in an increasingly complex financial landscape. Key initiatives include AI pilots focused on identifying disruptive trading behaviors and the integration of AI governance within the agency’s data division.

GSA Launches AI-Centric Digital Corps Fellowship

The General Services Administration (GSA) announced that its 2024 U.S. Digital Corps cohort will prioritize artificial intelligence, with over 40 out of 70 fellows assigned to AI-focused projects. This two-year fellowship aims to advance crucial federal technology initiatives, including cybersecurity at the Department of Homeland Security and disaster support at FEMA. Fellows will collaborate with 19 agencies, including new partners like the IRS and the U.S. Geological Survey, to help drive innovation and enhance services for the American public. The initiative aligns with the Biden administration’s National AI Talent Surge.

California AI Bill Faces Industry Pushback

California lawmakers have amended a groundbreaking bill, S.B. 1047, that would impose new regulations on artificial intelligence, requiring companies to test the safety of AI technologies before public release. The bill, which has sparked intense debate in Silicon Valley, allows the state’s attorney general to sue companies if their AI causes serious harm. Although amendments have been made to address tech industry concerns, critics worry that the legislation could stifle AI development. Several Democratic members of Congress have urged California Governor Gavin Newsom to veto S.B. 1047. The bill must pass the legislature by August 31, and Newsom has until September 30 to sign or veto it.

AI Enhances Operations at Atlanta Airport

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has successfully implemented a new business intelligence dashboard that aggregates data from 11 critical operational areas, significantly improving problem-solving and decision-making. The AI-powered dashboard integrates weather updates, passenger forecasts, and flight activity information, reducing the time needed to gain actionable insights by over 80 percent. Its success has led to plans for expansion, focusing on deeper data integration, cleansing, and personalization for different operational departments. The airport’s IT team envisions AI playing an even more significant role in future developments, enhancing passenger experience, security, and sustainability.