Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly announced on August 18, 2023 that she has directed executive branch agencies to adopt a statewide policy on generative AI that outlines how the technology can be used safely.
A new policy for the state of Kansas outlines how artificial intelligence technology can be used responsibly within state government.
State and local governments across the country have quickly responded with a spectrum of policies around the rapidly emerging technology. In Boston and Seattle, interim AI guidance was introduced to ensure safe staff experimentation with the tools. San Jose also released generative AI guidelines this month, warning that searches are subject to the California Public Records Act. In Maine, such tools were banned outright — at least temporarily.
The Kansas policy, which was created and introduced by the Kansas Office of Information Technology Services, outlines how this emerging technology can be used while protecting state information.
“It is essential that we be proactive in finding the best way to use any technology that can pose risks to Kansans’ data and privacy,” Governor Kelly said. “With the adoption of this policy, Kansas serves as a model for what an enterprising, effective government can do to stay at the forefront of technological advancements.”
Throughout 2023, the Boston Global Forum and the Michael Dukakis Institute for Leadership and Innovation have hosted conferences during which world leaders have explored the impact of artificial intelligence on governance, privacy, public health, economies, and the quality of information. We support thoughtful regulation of AI within a human-centered framework, informed by experience and the imperatives of maintaining openness and civil social order. It is heartening to see that major AI players are, at least publicly, cooperative and amenable to government engagement.
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)