The Little Hoover Commission, an independent state entity that serves as a watchdog and adviser to state government, is conducting a study into how artificial intelligence can be used to address food insecurity among vulnerable residents.
“The study will explore AI’s potential to efficiently enroll people in food aid, enhance food supply chain efficiency, and assist the charitable food system,” the commission says in its announcement of the study. “It will also consider the risks, such as bias and privacy concerns, as well as logistical considerations involved in implementing AI.”
The commission in 2018 studied and reported on the use of AI in state government, and it will continue that effort with the current study, which will “evaluate best practices for procuring and testing AI technology; training and supporting state workers and departments using AI; partnering with academia and the tech industry; and protecting Californians from AI-related harms.”
“The Commission’s comprehensive assessment will help ensure responsible and effective AI integration by the state, fostering innovation while safeguarding the workforce and public interests,” the commission says.
The study will also incorporate input from a hearing held last month focusing on AI in state government in its findings. From the public sector, Government Operations Agency Secretary Amy Tong was among the participants. Video from that hearing is available online.
Tong and state Chief Information OfficerLiana Bailey-Crimmins, who’s also the director of the California Department of Technology, took part in a May 29 summit on the use of generative AI by state government.
For more information about the commission’s study, contact Daniel Harris-McCoy. To be notified electronically of meetings, events, or when the review is complete, subscribe to Little Hoover Commission updates.
