1. Executive Order and AI Subcabinet
2. Strict AI Disclosure Rules in Baltimore and Anne Arundel County
3. Maryland Tightens Data Security Measures Amid AI Expansion

Maryland officials are tightening control over the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in government operations due to data management issues and the unpredictability of AI technologies.

Executive Order and AI Subcabinet

In January, Governor Wes Moore signed an executive order advocating a clear framework for AI governance, stressing that AI needs regulation due to its benefits and risks, such as privacy breaches. This led to the establishment of an AI subcabinet chaired by Maryland Secretary of Information Technology Katie Savage to help develop frameworks for the responsible implementation of AI in the state.

Strict AI Disclosure Rules in Baltimore and Anne Arundel County

Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County are becoming stricter on AI use. Baltimore City's Mayor Brandon Scott issued an executive order requiring full disclosure whenever generative AI tools are used in preparing any city government report, document, or communication. This order also restricts workers from inputting internal information into AI platforms like ChatGPT due to fears of sensitive information leaks. Similarly, Anne Arundel County acts with caution. Chief Information Officer Jack Martin requires any county agency intending to use generative AI to register with his office and continuously evaluate the technology's performance. While AI has reduced workloads in tasks like summarizing 311 calls, Martin highlighted the technology's unpredictability, citing a failed attempt to set up a contractor permit database.

Maryland Tightens Data Security Measures Amid AI Expansion

Maryland officials prioritize data protection as they explore AI's potential. Secretary Katie Savage emphasized the importance of safeguarding the state's data, especially regarding third-party vendors' involvement. Currently, the state controls several data centers and has agreements with IT giants like Google and Microsoft for cloud storage. Her office meticulously reviews these contracts to ensure that all data under such arrangements is properly secured and that third-party terms align with the state's security requirements. Experts also stress the importance of a cautious approach. For instance, Dr. Kofi Nyarko, a professor at Morgan State University, mentioned that AI could gather and process more data than necessary, potentially undermining data privacy and security. He advised that sensitive data be stored on servers within the country rather than in the cloud.

Maryland officials are taking steps to strictly control AI use in government agencies, focusing on data protection and developing clear frameworks for responsible technology use. As AI rapidly evolves, they aim to minimize risks and ensure information security.