The report outlines both the potential benefits and risks of AI and provides guidance for policymakers as the technology affects daily life.
MAINE, USA — On Friday, Governor Janet Mills released the final report of her Task Force on Artificial Intelligence, a comprehensive analysis outlining recommendations to harness AI’s potential while protecting Mainers from its risks.
The 21-member Task Force, created by Mills through executive order in December 2024, included state and local officials, legislators, business leaders, educators, and nonprofit representatives.
The group, guided by a 10-member Technical Advisory Committee, was tasked with preparing Maine’s economy and workforce for AI, protecting residents from harmful uses of AI, and deploying AI in state and local public agencies to improve services.
“I thank the members of the Artificial Intelligence Task Force, the many experts who contributed to its work, and the Maine people who shared their perspectives,” Mills said in a Friday news release. “This report sets a responsible AI direction for Maine to bolster innovation and our economy, while offering guidance on the safe and productive use of AI.”
Task Force Co-chairs Mary Dickinson of The Jackson Laboratory and David Daigler of the Maine Community College System said the report outlines both the potential benefits and risks of AI and provides guidance for policymakers as the technology affects daily life.
Since convening in January, the Task Force has heard from nearly 30 AI experts and collected public input on opportunities and concerns. The final report, delivered Oct. 31, positions Maine for continued collaboration across government, education, and industry.
Task Force Recommendations Include:
- AI literacy: Launch a statewide public AI literacy campaign to help Mainers, including youth and older adults, understand and safely use AI tools.
- Economy and workforce: Support innovation, new industries, and entrepreneurs while preparing for job disruptions across multiple sectors.
- Education: Encourage teacher training, innovation in classrooms, and local dialogue on the use of AI in learning environments.
- Health care: Expand safe, responsible use of AI to improve access and quality of care, especially in rural areas.
- Risk mitigation: Strengthen protections around privacy, cybersecurity, and deepfakes; safeguard consumers, children, and creative industries.
- Government use: Increase transparency and planning for AI deployment in state and local agencies, including guidelines for data centers and technology projects.
Read the full report below.
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