Montgomery County to Form AI Council

Montgomery County to Form AI Advisory Council for Ethical Technology Deployment

Montgomery County is taking a significant step towards ensuring responsible AI deployment by forming an advisory council. The council, initiated by the county commissioners, aims to guide the use of artificial intelligence for the public good, addressing growing concerns about ethical technology integration.

Neil Makhija, Chair of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners, emphasized the importance of AI in various county operations, including facial recognition for identifying perpetrators in crime videos. He noted that while AI is already in use, the rapid advancement of the technology necessitates a structured approach to ensure it is deployed ethically and responsibly.

Objectives of the AI Council

The AI advisory council will consist of up to 15 members, with applications already reaching 70 as of Friday. Makhija expressed the need for a diverse range of expertise, including professionals with backgrounds in infrastructure, human services, election administration, courts, and the criminal justice system.

"We’re looking for experts who can address the multifaceted challenges of AI, from technical deployment to ethical considerations," Makhija said. "This includes individuals with strong operational experience and those who are forward-thinking innovators."

Public Perception and Concerns

The formation of the council comes at a time when AI is becoming increasingly integrated into daily life. Andrew Abramson, a county resident, shared his family’s experience with AI tools like ChatGPT and Grok, highlighting how these technologies have made their lives easier. However, his wife, Stacy, raised concerns about the potential misuse of AI, particularly the emergence of deep fake videos that could deceive younger generations.

"The realism of deep fakes is alarming," Stacy Abramson said. "We need safeguards to ensure that people, especially the youth, are not misled by fabricated content."

Expert Insights on AI Risks and Rewards

Prof. Anat Lior, an assistant professor of law at Drexel University, provided a balanced perspective on AI. While acknowledging the benefits of AI, Lior emphasized the need to address its risks, including privacy violations and emotional harm. She cited instances where interactions with AI led to self-harm among vulnerable individuals, resulting in legal actions.

"AI is not just about technological advancement; it’s about how it impacts people’s lives," Lior said. "We need to focus on issues like bias in algorithms, which can lead to discrimination based on age, race, or gender."

Call for Diverse Expertise

Lior supported the creation of an advisory council with diverse expertise to navigate these complex issues. She noted that AI is transforming various sectors, from academia to industry, and requires a comprehensive approach to ensure its responsible use.

"This council is an opportunity to bring together experts from different fields to shape the future of AI in a way that benefits everyone," Lior said.

Application Process and Next Steps

Applications for the AI advisory council are open until Saturday, May 31. Interested individuals can find more information and apply at www.montgomerycountypa.gov/AICouncil. The county hopes to attract a broad range of applicants who can contribute to the responsible and ethical deployment of AI.

"We encourage anyone with relevant expertise to apply," Makhija said. "This is a chance to play a crucial role in shaping the future of AI in Montgomery County and beyond."