Introduction to the Issue
According to a post on his blog, a former employee of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) was working on a project to improve the public perception of the department’s use of artificial intelligence (AI). The employee, Sahil Lavingia, was given permission by his supervisor, who had been appointed by former President Donald Trump, to open-source the code he had been writing. This move was intended to increase transparency within the department.
The "Munchable" Tool
The code Lavingia wrote was for a tool called "munchable," which was designed to help the department decide which contracts to terminate. Lavingia’s decision to make the code public may have ultimately led to his dismissal from the department. After giving an interview to Fast Company magazine about his work with the department, Lavingia was terminated. A VA spokesperson declined to comment on the circumstances surrounding his dismissal.
The Future of AI in the VA
It is unclear whether the VA will continue to use the "munchable" tool in the future. However, documents obtained by ProPublica suggest that the department may be planning to rely more heavily on AI in the future. In March, officials proposed consolidating the benefits claims department by using more AI. This move could potentially lead to the replacement of some employees with automated systems.
Reaction from Contractors
After Lavingia made his code public, he received messages from VA contractors who were trying to understand how the department was deciding which contracts to terminate. The contractors were concerned about the potential impact on their businesses and were trying to learn more about the department’s decision-making process. Lavingia believes that transparency is important and that it can help contractors and others understand how the department is using AI.
Getting Involved
If you have any information about the misuse or abuse of AI within government agencies, you can contact investigative journalist Brandon Roberts. He can be reached on Signal @brandonrobertz.01 or by email at brandon.roberts@propublica.org. If you have information about the VA, you can contact reporters Vernal Coleman or Eric Umansky.
Conclusion
The use of AI in government agencies is a complex issue that raises important questions about transparency and accountability. The story of Sahil Lavingia and the "munchable" tool highlights the need for careful consideration of these issues. As the use of AI continues to grow, it is essential that we prioritize transparency and ensure that these systems are being used in ways that benefit the public.
FAQs
- Q: What is the "munchable" tool?
A: The "munchable" tool is a code written by Sahil Lavingia to help the VA decide which contracts to terminate. - Q: Why was Sahil Lavingia terminated from the VA?
A: Lavingia was terminated after giving an interview to Fast Company magazine about his work with the department. - Q: Will the VA continue to use the "munchable" tool?
A: It is unclear whether the VA will continue to use the "munchable" tool in the future. - Q: How can I get involved if I have information about the misuse or abuse of AI?
A: You can contact investigative journalist Brandon Roberts or reporters Vernal Coleman or Eric Umansky.
