State of Georgia: AI Roadmap and Governance Framework

The State of Georgia is embarking on a transformative journey to integrate artificial intelligence into government operations and service delivery with a commitment to responsibility, ethics, and efficiency. AI presents an opportunity to enhance public services, optimize data-driven decision-making, and improve constituent experiences. To harness its potential, Georgia is developing a comprehensive AI Enablement Strategy, supported by a structured roadmap and a robust governance framework.

AI Enablement Strategy

AI Enablement ensures that Georgia's government is well-equipped with the policies, infrastructure, and expertise required to deploy AI solutions effectively. While AI is not a quick fix for systemic challenges, its thoughtful implementation can significantly enhance the state's operational capabilities.

In 2024, the state initiated a series of foundational efforts to establish a strong AI governance ecosystem. An AI Advisory Council was established to oversee policy development, while an AI inventory was conducted to assess existing applications and identify areas of opportunity. 

Building upon these foundational efforts, 2025 will mark the transition toward experimentation and strategic scaling. Strengthening AI governance remains a priority, with the development of a formal governance framework that integrates risk management into procurement and software approval processes. Sector-specific guidelines tailored to various agencies will further refine the implementation of AI solutions across state operations. Training programs are being introduced to equip state employees with AI literacy, and procurement guidelines are in the works to ensure responsible AI adoption.

A critical component of this strategy is the enhancement of Georgia’s data foundations. The state is in the process of hiring a Chief Data Officer who will formalize comprehensive data governance policies to improve AI reliability, launch an Authoritative Data Sources program to prioritize AI-ready datasets, and explore synthetic data solutions that protect privacy while enabling innovation.

Encouraging AI experimentation and adoption is key to driving impactful results. The state is shifting from isolated pilot programs to structured proof-of-concept initiatives, fostering a controlled AI sandbox environment for safe testing, and organizing statewide AI innovation challenges to promote practical applications.

Horizons: Innovation Lab

To further support AI innovation and real-world implementation, Georgia has established the Georgia Innovation Lab, a proving ground for pilot projects between state agencies and industry partners. Based on the concept of the three horizons model, this lab operates based on a strategic framework that will help state agencies balance their current business with future growth opportunities. This initiative fosters a collaborative environment where emerging AI technologies can be tested and refined before full-scale deployment. By providing a structured space for experimentation, the Georgia Innovation Lab ensures that AI solutions meet the highest standards of effectiveness, security, and ethical considerations before they are integrated into government operations.

Several key sectors will serve as focal points for AI integration, including workforce development, critical infrastructure, public safety, criminal justice, healthcare, economic development, and education. AI-driven initiatives will explore opportunities to enhance government service delivery while safeguarding privacy and security.

Governance Framework

To ensure AI is deployed responsibly, Georgia's governance model will establish clear ethical and risk management standards. AI impact assessments will be a prerequisite before implementation, accompanied by stringent privacy and security regulations. Public engagement will play a crucial role in maintaining transparency, with regular policy updates and stakeholder consultations informing decision-making processes.

Workforce Upskilling and Reskilling

As AI adoption accelerates, Georgia is also committed to increasing AI literacy across its workforce. Expanding AI training through the Georgia AI Pilot License Program, fostering academic partnerships to bring AI expertise into government projects, and strengthening the Georgia AI Community of Practice will help bridge the knowledge gap and facilitate collaboration across agencies. In a significant move to enhance workforce AI capabilities, Georgia has partnered with Coursera and InnovateUS to curate specialized AI training programs. These collaborations provide state employees with access to world-class AI education, ensuring they have the skills needed to effectively integrate AI solutions into government operations.

The Future of AI in Georgia

Looking beyond 2025, Georgia aims to integrate AI into government workflows, fostering an environment where AI-driven efficiencies benefit constituents and public servants alike. A permanent AI innovation lab will support ongoing research and development, while public-private collaborations will drive advancements in AI governance and application. Expanding AI workforce development initiatives will ensure that Georgia remains at the forefront of technological progress, preparing for a future where AI plays an integral role in shaping the public sector.

Through strategic investments in governance, data infrastructure, workforce development, and experimentation, Georgia is positioning itself as a leader in responsible AI adoption. By embracing innovation while prioritizing ethical considerations, the state is charting a path toward a more efficient, intelligent, and responsive government.

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