San Jose, Calif., forms nationwide government AI coalition
- More than 500 officials from 200 local, county, and state governments in the United States are forming a coalition to promote responsible AI use.
- The GovAI Coalition, led by officials from the City of San Jose, aims to involve government leaders, policymakers, and industry partners in shaping AI’s future.
- The group seeks to ensure that AI adoption benefits society and advocates for proactive policy creation regarding AI.
- San Jose’s Chief Information Officer, Khaled Tawfik, emphasizes the importance of being proactive in understanding AI risks and creating mitigation plans.
- While federal agencies provide AI frameworks, local agencies lack resources and detailed knowledge, prompting the coalition’s formation.
- The coalition addresses the challenges local governments face in procuring technology, especially with the increasing integration of AI.
- Members share resources and experiences through frequent Zoom meetings to support each other in navigating the AI landscape.
- The coalition offers free template policies, response plans, and vendor agreements for local governments to use.
- The number of coalition members has grown significantly since its launch, highlighting the demand for collaborative efforts in governing AI.
- A public forum hosted by the coalition on March 27 aims to encourage more agencies to join and exchange ideas on AI governance.