This Week in Government Technology – September 22nd-29th, 2024
Federal Highlights
The U.S. Department of Labor has proactively promoted inclusive hiring practices by introducing an in-house AI framework. This new initiative focuses on reducing bias in the hiring process and improving recruitment efforts for disabled individuals. Meanwhile, over 20 federal executive branch agencies have released detailed compliance plans, following recent guidance from the Office of Budget and Management (OMB) on AI governance. These plans outline AI procurement, deployment, risk assessment, and data management strategies, signaling a more structured approach to federal AI oversight.
In addition, the General Services Administration (GSA) reported a 41% increase in enrollment for its newly launched AI safety and training curriculum for federal employees. This significant uptake reflects a growing commitment within federal agencies to equip staff with the necessary knowledge and skills to manage and deploy AI technologies safely.
State-Level News
Maryland has joined New Jersey and California in rolling out an AI training curriculum tailored for public sector employees. This initiative aims to ensure that government workers are prepared to engage with AI technologies in their daily operations effectively, enhancing overall state agency efficiency.
In New York, the city’s sixth annual Transit Tech Lab Competition concluded, bringing together dozens of AI developers eager to pitch solutions to improve NYC’s transit systems. Of the many participants, 18 developers were selected to partner with transit authorities over the next year to pilot AI technologies to improve the city’s public transportation efficiency.
In Other News
A bipartisan group of Stanford professors released a series of essays titled “The Digitalist Papers,” offering diverse viewpoints on AI regulation in the U.S. Among the contributors, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice advocated for more public involvement in shaping the role of AI in government. In contrast, others argued for minimal government regulation of AI development.
Lastly, Prepared, a leading supplier of emergency dispatch technology, raised $27 million in funding to develop AI tools that enhance 911’s rapid response capabilities. Meanwhile, StateTech published an insightful op-ed this week, exploring how federal agencies can leverage AI to design more accessible programs and spaces, focusing on improving accessibility for disabled individuals.