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State Sen. Paul Mark and state Sen. Robyn Kennedy of Worcester, holding gifts, visit Berkshire County Arc's programs earlier this month.

State Senators Tour Berkshire County Arc Programs

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — State Sen. Paul Mark and state Sen. Robyn Kennedy of Worcester, chair for the Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities, recently spent time visiting Berkshire County Arc's programs. Mark is also a member of the joint committee. 
 
During their visit, they spent time discussing short- and long-term plans for human services in Massachusetts.
 
BCArc offers a broad range of community-based services to individuals with developmental disabilities, brain injuries and autism.
 
In the photo above, from left: Pam Kight, director of employment and community-based day services; Cybele Kilby, vice president of day & employment services; state Sen. Paul Mark; state Sen. Robyn Kennedy; President & CEO Maryann Hyatt; Erin Manson, Department of Developmental Services residential services director; CFO Blanca Durant; Jessica Russo, director of family support & advocacy; and Scott Barschdorf, director of brain injury services.
 
 

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Dalton Board Reviews Draft AI, Social Media Policies

By Sabrina DammsiBerkshires Staff
DALTON, Mass. — Artificial intelligence is becoming a topic of discussion at several governmental agencies across the state, and has now come before the Select Board.
 
The board reviewed draft policies on artificial intelligence and social media usage at its Monday meeting. No vote was taken, as the drafts will first be reviewed by the town's attorney.
 
During the discussion, questions arose about clarifying vague language and understanding what state law permits regarding free speech on social media. These concerns will be reviewed by town counsel. 
 
The artificial intelligence policy aims to set clear standards guiding town employees, officials, and departments to use AI tools responsibly, legally, and securely.
 
The policy emphasizes that AI tools can assist, not replace, professional judgment for tasks including drafting preliminary documents such as memos, policies, and communications; summarizing public documents; providing research assistance; organizing and analyzing data; transcribing public meetings; and translation services.  
 
"The basic concept is you never want to take what's generated at face value without checking," Town Manager Eric Anderson said. 
 
The personnel using the generative "artificial intelligence" tool are required to review it to ensure the content is accurate, he said. 
 
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