Transparent Automated Governance Act TAG Act
If enacted, the TAG Act will require the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to issue guidance on how agencies should manage their use of automated systems. Agencies will be required to implement this guidance within a specified time period, and there will be a system for appeal if individuals are adversely affected by decisions made through automated processes. The act also includes provisions for regular updates and reviews, ensuring ongoing compliance and transparency in governmental operations. This could lead to significant new operational requirements for agencies, changing how they interact with technology and the public.
House Bill 6886, also known as the Transparent Automated Governance Act (TAG Act), is aimed at ensuring transparency in the use of automated and augmented systems utilized by government agencies. The bill mandates that agencies provide clear notice to the public when they are engaging with such systems, particularly when these systems are used to make critical decisions that can significantly impact individuals' lives. This includes decisions related to employment, healthcare, housing, and public assistance among others. The bill's intent is to safeguard civil rights and ensure that individuals are informed about the processes affecting them.
There has been some debate about the implications of this bill. Proponents argue that transparency is crucial in the age of AI and big data, particularly as automated systems become more integrated into government processes. They believe that the bill will help prevent discrimination and ensure fair treatment of individuals. Conversely, critics express concerns about potential bureaucratic burdens on agencies and the possibility that overly stringent regulations might hinder the effective implementation of technology that can improve efficiency in public service delivery. The balance between innovation and regulation remains a point of tension in discussions surrounding the TAG Act.