How the nation’s capital thinks about AI implementation, and the values that guide it

AI initiatives in Washington, D.C. driven by core values: The nation’s capital is taking a strategic approach to implementing artificial intelligence, guided by six core values established by Mayor Muriel Bowser in February 2024.

• An executive order signed by Mayor Bowser defined these AI values and established two key groups: a public AI Advisory Group and an internal AI Taskforce.
• The district’s Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Stephen Miller emphasizes that only AI solutions aligning with all six core values will be adopted.
• This value-driven approach aims to ensure that AI advancements meet the standards set by the mayor and benefit the district’s residents.

Key players and their roles: The AI initiatives in D.C. involve collaboration between various officials and groups to ensure responsible AI implementation.

• Stephen Miller, recently appointed as the permanent CTO, serves on the AI Advisory Group alongside the district’s Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).
• Members of the AI Advisory Group will serve until December 31, 2026, providing long-term guidance and oversight.
• The internal AI Taskforce comprises specialists in various areas, including law, usability, and software development.
• Both the Advisory Group and Taskforce work together to advance value-driven AI implementation in the district.

Progress and implementations: Washington, D.C. has already begun rolling out AI-powered technologies across various sectors, showcasing early success in aligning with its core values.

• The AI Advisory Group has held two meetings this year, focusing on educational initiatives and receiving positive feedback on the district’s AI tool rollout.
• DC Compass, a generative AI-based tool, aims to improve public access to data, making government information more transparent and accessible.
• Career Ready DC, an AI-powered career platform, has been implemented to connect district residents with job opportunities, addressing employment needs.
• AI technologies are also being utilized to enhance citizen access to government services through multiple channels, improving overall civic engagement.

Ensuring alignment with core values: The district’s approach to AI implementation emphasizes a thorough vetting process to maintain integrity and public trust.

• All proposed AI solutions must align with the six core values established by Mayor Bowser’s executive order.
• This strict adherence to values helps ensure that AI technologies serve the public interest and maintain ethical standards.
• The collaboration between the Advisory Group and Taskforce allows for comprehensive evaluation of AI tools from various perspectives, including technical, legal, and usability considerations.

Broader implications for AI governance: Washington, D.C.’s value-driven approach to AI implementation could serve as a model for other cities and governments.

• By prioritizing core values in AI adoption, the district sets a precedent for responsible and ethical use of emerging technologies in government.
• This approach may help address common concerns about AI, such as privacy, bias, and transparency, by ensuring these issues are considered from the outset.
• As AI continues to evolve and become more prevalent in government operations, D.C.’s framework could provide valuable insights for developing best practices in AI governance at local and national levels.