State of Rhode Island AI Task Force

The Rhode Island Artificial Intelligence (AI) Task Force is a state-level initiative which is assessing and promoting the development, implementation, and regulation of artificial intelligence technologies within Rhode Island. 

Established by Governor Dan McKee’s Executive Order 24-06 “Artificial Intelligence and Data Centers of Excellence”, the Task Force is aimed at understanding AI’s potential impact on various sectors, including business, education, healthcare, and government.

Key goals of the Rhode Island AI Task Force include:

• Promoting AI Development: Fostering innovation in AI technologies, supporting research, and encouraging businesses and educational institutions to engage with AI.
• Assessing Opportunities and Risks: Identifying the economic, societal, and ethical implications of AI, and understanding both the opportunities it offers and the risks it poses, such as job displacement or privacy concerns.
• Regulation and Policy: Developing recommendations for regulations or frameworks to ensure AI is used responsibly, safely, and equitably within the state. This includes addressing issues like algorithmic bias, data privacy, and accountability.
• Workforce Development: Promoting education and training programs to ensure that Rhode Island’s workforce is prepared for the changes AI will bring, and to fill emerging skill gaps in the field.

The State of Rhode Island AI Task Force is made up of representatives from various sectors, including state agencies, tech companies, academic institutions, and other stakeholders, all working together to shape the state’s AI strategy.

The task force's efforts are part of a broader trend across the U.S. and globally to both harness the benefits of AI and mitigate its risks through thoughtful planning and policy development.