Perhaps it was anticipated: In an era of autonomous vehicles and ChatGPT, municipal authorities in Washington, D.C., could soon deploy chatbots to revolutionize governmental operations.
Mayor Muriel E. Bowser (D) of Washington introduced her unique perspective on Thursday by enacting an executive order that establishes “artificial intelligence values” for city businesses as they deliberate on the utilization of such systems in their day-to-day operations in the foreseeable future.
During an event at Microsoft’s Innovation and Policy Center on Thursday, Bowser expressed, “We understand that artificial intelligence, especially generative AI, holds the potential to transform our work,” as she disclosed an executive order solidifying her stance in the ever-evolving digital landscape. Acknowledging the profound impact of the internet on our lives, she emphasized the transformative influence of smartphones. Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of the Washington, D.C., administration taking a proactive approach to incorporating AI technologies.
In the forthcoming months and years, a panel of advisors convened by Bowser will primarily explore the potential impacts of AI on various government roles, particularly in critical areas like public safety, where its use by law enforcement could attract significant scrutiny. This task force will collaborate with government agencies to assess the benefits and drawbacks of AI for specific governmental functions. The executive order mandates appointees to gather public feedback and address any concerns raised.
Bowser outlined potential applications of AI on Thursday, such as leveraging it for talent acquisition or connecting D.C. residents with job opportunities. By streamlining service requests, the city aims to expedite residents’ access to essential services. Additionally, the administration intends to analyze evolving public needs and preferences to inform strategic governance decisions.
Furthermore, AI could optimize the operational efficiency of city officials.
Bowser remarked, “The possibilities are truly limitless.” However, she stressed the importance of ensuring functionality, akin to any new technology, and aligning it with D.C.’s values.
Numerous leaders in the region, including Maryland Governor, have been contemplating the forthcoming era of AI. Wes Moore (D), for instance, issued an executive order on AI in January. Bowser indicated that her executive order stemmed from a productive meeting with over 100 mayors nationwide at the Bloomberg CityLab event last fall at Washington, D.C.’s Johns Hopkins Bloomberg Center, where she engaged in discussions on AI’s role in enhancing capital services.
Microsoft has been actively supporting various cities nationwide in implementing AI technologies, as noted by Ernie Fernandez, vice president of U.S. state and local government at the company powering D.C.’s technology infrastructure. Fernandez cited Microsoft’s collaboration with New York City to develop a multilingual bot for public interactions.
Microsoft envisions AI-driven agents in the future that can streamline routine tasks, enhancing government employees’ productivity.
Fernandez envisions a scenario where federal employees might have personalized AI assistants within the next few years to augment their workflows.
“We have been contemplating this for some time to ensure that our AI-enabled solutions are ethically grounded and serve humanity,” Fernandez emphasized. He highlighted the necessity of implementing safeguards to regulate AI usage effectively.
The six guiding principles for D.C.’s government entities include specifying clear benefits to residents when utilizing AI and considering alternatives if available. Companies must prioritize “safety and equity” and explore alternative options. The order mandates agencies to uphold human accountability for all actions stemming from AI tools. Moreover, agencies must assess the impact of AI on security, employee privacy, job quality, potential displacement, and overall quality of life.
Additionally, the executive order mandates transparency in AI interactions, requiring agencies to disclose when and how AI interfaces with individuals.
By October, agencies are expected to commence submitting proposals for AI utilization.
D.C. has already delved into AI applications in various sectors. For example, the public school system has established a task force, led by City Administrator Kevin Donahue, to explore the integration of AI tools in classrooms, examining the potential benefits of leveraging AI for educational purposes. Educators are leveraging technology to evaluate the viability of AI-generated reports.
Furthermore, the Bowser administration has been proactive in addressing self-driving vehicles. Since February 2018, an “autonomous vehicles working group” has developed its own set of values and principles, along with conducting research on their potential implications. In January 2022, the department proposed a framework for manufacturers to test self-driving vehicles on D.C. streets, with regulations expected to be finalized soon.
In the interim, manufacturers must test self-driving vehicles on city streets with a human supervisor onboard.
Despite some reservations, Bowser expressed interest in self-driving cars, having even experienced a test drive in San Francisco. When asked about her experience, she remarked, “You know how bumpy it can get.”
