Artificial intelligence is faster than government. That has to change.

Before you finish reading this sentence, artificial intelligence will have adapted. Unsurprisingly, government is not just seconds, but years behind in harnessing the technology.

However, there are signs that government is trying to catch up to the private sector. On April 3, the White House Office of Management and Budget issued a memo to federal agencies requiring AI be utilized to "help shape the future of government operations" and that any purchase and use of AI systems should have three priorities — "innovation, governance and public trust."

In New York, an urgent call to arms is needed. In 2019, state lawmakers created a temporary commission to study AI’s use by state agencies. But no recommendations were made, according to an April report by state Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli which found a "disconnect" between the Office of Information Technology Services and other state entities "in terms of AI knowledge and responsibilities," and made the startling claim that there is a "lack of statewide guidance, poor identification of AI technology, and non-existent training."

That’s a troubling assertion if government is to provide guardrails for agencies to safely use AI while protecting sensitive information and civil rights.

DiNapoli’s report is alarming. Not only do state agencies differ on how to use AI and what safeguards should be in place, a common definition of AI also seems to be missing. Another major problem: The AI policy leaves agencies free to determine what is, or is not, responsible use of AI. DiNapoli told the editorial board that guidance is "urgently" needed.

AI holds great promise for streamlining governmental processes, which could lead to greater efficiencies and reduced spending. But clear rules must be put in place to protect New Yorkers. The state must create nimble strategies to protect individual rights from future challenges that will occur with the burgeoning use of AI.

Where to begin? First, Gov. Kathy Hochul must take ownership of this issue as the chief executive of state government. There must be a comprehensive, statewide inventory of AI uses by all government agencies. Where is AI being utilized and for what purposes? In every instance, human oversight must be the central tenet of safety. Next, New York needs regular and repeated checks by the Office of Information Technology Services to ensure agencies know how to properly deploy AI and manage the risks and unintended consequences.

Finally, New York must provide precise guidance for county, town and village governments — and school districts — on AI usage so the technology can deliver benefits while protecting residents' privacy. DiNapoli's report doesn't mention local governments, but if state agencies are confused by AI, it's a safe bet that local municipalities are as well. New York should take the lead on this issue.

Government must keep stride with AI to protect residents.