NACo's AI Exploratory Committee covers emerging policies, practices and potential applications and consequences of Artificial Intelligence (AI), through the lens of county government governance, operations, constituent services, innovation, public trust, privacy, and security, and workforce productivity. 

AI systems have catapulted the use of advanced computer technologies within society at unprecedented scale. People across the world are recognizing the potential that AI will bring to the economy and public sector, and America’s counties need to be prepared to address this innovation with the realization that AI technology is here to stay.

About the Exploratory Committee

NACo President Denise Winfrey appointed 16 county leaders from across America, representing the broad spectrum of county demographics and functions.

The Potential Impacts of AI on Counties

The AI Exploratory Committee will operate under a scope that seeks to determine:

• Assess the current state of AI technology

• Identify potential applications of AI and the related benefits and risks for county govt. operations

• Evaluate the risks and benefits of AI related to workforce productivity, displacement and skills

• Explore the county governance landscape with ethics, public trust, privacy and security impacts

• Develop a preliminary policy and practice toolkit with sample guidelines and standards for AI

• Identify opportunities for collaboration and partnership with different county stakeholders

• Advise on public policy issues that may need to be considered by NACo’s board and policy committees

• Facilitate education and engagement opportunities for county officials, NACo networks and partners

The AI Exploratory Committee is dedicated to exploring these and many more benefits as AI is integrated into governmental services. The adherence to thoughtful risk management and diligent privacy practices will be of upmost importance as counties adapt to AI systems. 

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