New Maine task force to study AI's impact on business

Janet Mills signing paper at a table or desk.

Photo /provided Gov. Janet Mills signing an executive order establishing a task force to study the opportunities and implications of AI for Maine.

Write a Comment

By Renee Cordes

A new task force created by Gov. Janet Mills will study the opportunities and implications of artificial intelligence for Maine's people, economy and institutions and develop policy recommendations by October 2025.

Mills’ executive order establishing the body comes in response to a rapid surge of technological advancements that are poised to revolutionize how people live and work.

Nearly one-fifth of U.S. workers are classified as "highly exposed" to AI, making them vulnerable to job transformations driven by advancements in the emerging technology, according to the governor's office.

At the same time, AI has the potential to create new jobs and businesses, improve productivity and efficiency, and reduce barriers to entry into some technical fields.

The Maine Artificial Intelligence Task Force will bring together business, education, labor, government and community leaders to study the challenges and opportunities associated with the proliferation of AI. Duties include preparing policy recommendations that will position Maine to harness the benefits of AI while minimizing risks for people and businesses.

"Emerging AI technologies offer the potential to improve lives, drive economic growth and help solve complex challenges,” Mills said. “But like all new technologies, AI, if not embraced in a prudent and responsible manner, can cause potentially harmful changes to the lives and livelihoods of Maine people.”

Members of the 21-member task force will include leaders from Maine state and municipal government, the University of Maine System and the Maine Community College System, as well as individuals representing Maine workers, businesses, health care, civil rights advocacy and a consumer protection organization.

The group, whose members will be announced in the coming weeks, will start meeting in January.

"Artificial intelligence presents incredible opportunities for Maine businesses to innovate and grow, but we must also take proactive steps to help ensure Maine's economy is prepared to adapt to the rapid pace of change," said Heather Johnson, Maine’s commissioner of economic and community development.