Innovation

New Mexico State University, Japanese tech firm create new ‘innovation hub’ to test AI

The university is partnering with a Japanese tech company to the create a testing ground for the company’s latest AI and other advanced technologies.

How local governments can prepare for and maintain AI success

Strategic partnerships, thoughtful procurement and progress monitoring are valuable levers for local governments to deploy AI solutions in their communities, officials say.

At least 4 bills to reform sweeping AI law expected during Colorado special session

State lawmakers failed to pass tweaks in regular session. They’ll try again this week.

How Maryland is approaching statewide IT modernization

The state released an IT master plan that aims to innovate how state employees approach emerging technologies and how services are delivered to residents.

State officials should use ‘safety goggles’ when implementing AI, Minnesota official says

As state legislators interested in AI expands, so too should their efforts to establish guardrails and policies that ensure the tech’s responsible use.

Quality digital solutions can build public trust, report finds

Digital services that are transparent and informative can help build residents’ trust in their local governments, a new report from CivicPlus says.

Pittsburgh AI czar says Steel City, Keystone State uniquely positioned for AI robotics growth

Next month, the city will host the AI Horizons Pittsburgh summit, where industry and government leaders will discuss how to help Pennsylvania capitalize on strengths that are attractive to the physical AI industry.

Report: How counties are priming themselves for AI innovation

A new report ranked Miami-Dade County in Florida ahead of the pack in AI adoption, due to its “forward-looking approach” to the technology.

As the Trump administration loosens AI rules, states look to regulate the technology

Measures range from consumer protections to deepfakes to use in health care.

Why Ohio companies are investing in hydrogen cars despite infrastructure issues

Hydrogen fuel cell cars could overcome some buyers’ reluctance to switch from gasoline-powered vehicles, but whether fueling infrastructure can deliver is iffy.

House AI Task Force recommends sector-specific regs in final report

The document aims to balance keeping the U.S. competitive in AI innovation and adoption while mitigating negative outcomes. 

How Maryland is expanding the use of mobile IDs

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration has developed an app for organizations to verify people’s digital licenses that other jurisdictions can adopt.

Tech modernization, civil service protection big priorities for Virginia's new House Democrat

Virginia’s first Indian-American congressman-elect will bring some tech policy chops to Capitol Hill.

Report details how states can implement reliable, effective generative AI

For generative AI initiatives to be successful, a new report suggests a slow and steady approach to the technology.

As AI in mental health evolves, one states wants to regulate it while encouraging innovation

The Utah Office of Artificial Intelligence Policy is exploring best practices and potential pitfalls in the technology.

In one state, residents vote to invest in science, tech research

A bond question in Maine looks to increase funding to public and private entities for research on biomedical sciences, renewable energy and other environmental technology, or agriculture, forestry and marine technology.

New fellowship program looks to help policymakers improve civic tech

The initiative will provide state and local governments insights on how to improve online tools and services for their residents.

State IT innovations honored in annual awards

States’ efforts to improve the delivery of benefits, such as food stamps and Medicaid, strengthen cybersecurity, and enhance residents’ overall digital experiences were recognized by the association of state IT leaders.

In one city, litter meets its mechanical match

A pilot program in Detroit has enlisted a trash removal robot to reduce plastic pollution on the beach from entering local waterways.

How to prevent ideas from getting lost in translation

Policy researchers and government administrators often seem like they’re speaking different languages. A new book aims to help experts communicate more clearly, so their ideas can have real-world impacts.