Gov. Tate Reeves signed the first executive order in Mississippi history pertaining to artificial intelligence (AI) on Wednesday.
Executive Order No. 1584 holds a wide scope, as Reeves explained at a press conference. The purpose of the measure is to help move AI technology forward in Mississippi – particularly its use in state agencies – protect citizens’ privacy, and lay a further foundation to attract tech innovators to do business in the Magnolia State.
“AI isn’t going anywhere anytime soon,” Reeves said. “There are a lot of benefits and risks associated with this technology, and that’s why Mississippi needs to continue preparing for its eventual widespread adoption. This executive order will help bring together stakeholders, as well as better protect Mississippians’ privacy, security, and rights.”
Today, I signed Mississippi’s first executive order on artificial intelligence.
The EO will help to bring together stakeholders, as well as better protect Mississippians’ privacy, security and rights. https://t.co/QECbCasTtj
— Governor Tate Reeves (@tatereeves) January 8, 2025
Another primary objective of the order is to responsibly utilize AI tech to modernize the state government and improve efficiency. Through the measure, the Mississippi Department of Information Technology Services (ITS) is directed to “conduct an inventory of all AI technologies being planned, piloted, acquired, developed and/or utilized by each state agency.”
ITS is also directed to evaluate the current use of AI in each state agency and to develop policy recommendations on the technology’s advancement in Mississippi.
“Mississippi is committed to harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence to transform public services responsibly,” State Chief Information Officer Dr. Craig Orgeron said. “By fostering collaboration among state agencies, industry experts, and stakeholders, we are ensuring that AI is implemented ethically, securely, and in a way that builds trust while delivering meaningful improvement for all Mississippians.”
During the announcement, Reeves highlighted the state government’s commitment to harness recent economic development momentum – particularly in the tech sector, such as the $10 billion Amazon Web Services project in Madison County and a $1.9 billion electric vehicle battery plant being built in Marshall County.
Lawmakers who chair the House and Senate Technology Committees, Rep. Jill Ford and Sen. Bart Williams, voiced their full support of the move by Reeves.
“This executive order positions Mississippi as a leader in AI innovation,” Williams said. “By embracing AI, we can attract businesses, enhance state services, and prepare our workforce for future opportunities. AI is a tool for today’s challenges, and Mississippi is ready to lead in this technological era, benefiting our communities and economy.”
The full executive order can be read here.
