On April 17, 2024, the U.S. Department of Commerce (the Department) announced the launch of a Request for Information (RFI) regarding AI-Ready Open Government Data Assets, initiated by the AI and Open Government Data Assets Working Group. In particular, the Department noted that the working group, established by its Data Governance Board, aims to develop guidelines and best practices for achieving artificial intelligence (AI)-ready open government data.

The Department underscored its commitment to ensuring easy access and interpretation of public data, including economic, demographic, and environmental data, for the benefit of all Americans. Additionally, the Department mentioned that the focus lies on enabling the responsible use of this data by AI applications, particularly generative AI, which has the potential to democratize access to commerce and foster innovation nationwide.

Furthermore, the Department seeks feedback from the public until July 16, 2024, on the Department's data dissemination methods and data structures to align with the increasing consumption by AI systems.

Finally, the Department announced that the working group will compile insights gathered from the RFI into guidelines and best practices by the end of 2024. The working group will host a public webinar on April 29, 2024, to engage stakeholders further on the RFI.

You can read the press release here and access the RFI here.