Capitol Watch: New York to take on artificial intelligence

In New York government news, state officials are examining the opportunities -- and risks -- posed by artificial intelligence. Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, signed legislation this month that creates a 13-member commission tasked with reviewing the emerging technology and what it will mean for New Yorkers. Meanwhile, the ongoing scourge of opioid abuse is getting some attention with lawmakers announcing a series of public hearings to identify ways the state could do a better job of addressing the problem. While no one is predicting a robot uprising any time soon, state officials say they are concerned by how the rise of artificial intelligence and robotics could affect jobs, the delivery of government services and personal privacy. The New York State Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Automation Commission, approved by lawmakers earlier this year, will also look at how A.I. could be used "in unlawful or unsafe ways."