Massachusetts Launches Enterprise AI Assistant Across State Government

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey has introduced a ChatGPT-powered artificial intelligence (AI) assistant designed to help the state government’s nearly 40,000 workers deliver services more efficiently.

In a recent statement, Healey announced the launch of the AI Assistant, which will be implemented across the state’s executive branch.

The state and OpenAI have agreed to a contract to deploy ChatGPT at scale across Massachusetts state government, making Massachusetts the first to adopt the technology for the entire executive branch, according to Healey’s statement.

“The Human Resources Division is excited about this employee-focused resource,” said Melissa Pullin, the division’s chief human resources officer, in a statement. “This partnership will be able to assist state employees in the course of their work and provides a cutting-edge tool to support the Commonwealth’s workforce.”

The rollout will take a phased approach, starting with staff in the Executive Office of Technology Services and Security (TSS), Healey’s office said, adding that more secretariats and executive branch agencies will be onboarded in the months ahead.

The state is also offering optional training programs for state employees using the AI assistant, with the goal of providing these workers with “a baseline understanding on best practices and strategic use of the tool,” according to Healey’s office.

“By making ChatGPT available to the state workforce, we are empowering our employees with a secure, governed tool that can enhance service delivery while maintaining the highest standards for data privacy, security, and thoughtful, transparent usage of AI,” said Massachusetts Technology Secretary Jason Snyder, in a statement.

“Our focus is not just adopting AI, but doing so in a way that reflects our values and strengthens trust with the residents we serve.”