Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves has issued an executive order (EO) that aims to foster stakeholder collaboration as the state harnesses artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.
“AI isn’t going anywhere anytime soon,” the governor said. “There are a lot of benefits and risks associated with this technology, and that’s why Mississippi needs to continue preparing for its eventual widespread adoption. This executive order will help to bring together stakeholders, as well as better protect Mississippians’ privacy, security and rights. We’ll continue using innovative technology to modernize state government and make it more efficient.”
The new EO directs the Mississippi Department of Information Technology Services (ITS) to “conduct an inventory of all AI technologies being planned, piloted, acquired, developed, and/or utilized by each state agency.” The executive order also directs ITS to “evaluate the processes, guidelines (including procurement) and/or uses of AI currently in place at each state agency.”
Additionally, the order directs ITS to “coordinate with state agencies to develop policy recommendations for the agency’s responsible use of AI, including principles, guidelines, and criteria to govern the acquisition, development and utilization of AI by state agencies.”
Finally, the executive order directs ITS to engage with public and private sector stakeholders to “advise and/or provide recommendations, as needed, on best practices, uses, strategies, and other related tasks.”
“Mississippi is committed to harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence to transform public services responsibly,” said Dr. Craig P. Orgeron, the state’s chief information officer. “By fostering collaboration among state agencies, industry experts, and stakeholders, we are ensuring that AI is implemented ethically, securely, and in a way that builds trust while delivering meaningful improvements for all Mississippians.”
