Author Archive
Chris Teale
Digital Government
Debate intensifies over how to spend leftover BEAD money
One elected leader said Congress needs “more say” on spending, while others said it should stick to its original intent and be used by states to close the digital divide how they see fit.
Artificial Intelligence
Researchers warn of AI, data centers’ water impact
Two separate reports warned the technology and the infrastructure needed to power it could exhaust water supplies. But they said policy could help avert the worst disasters.
People
Maine secretary of state reflects on a tumultuous period
Shenna Bellows has lived through federal demands for voter data, ICE raids, doxing and more. But with this year’s midterm elections fast approaching, there’s more to do.
Public Safety
Super Bowl gears up for massive security operation
While immigration officials will reportedly not be present at the San Francisco game this weekend, a raft of federal, state and local agencies will be on site to keep the event safe from various threats.
Digital Government
Tennessee platform looks to connect academic research with business
The Tennessee Innovation Exchange provides a central repository for institutions and the private sector to partner and showcase their expertise.
Artificial Intelligence
Mayors group rolls out AI playbook
The U.S. Conference of Mayors and Google partnered on the playbook, which they said would help city leaders deploy the technology safely and measure success.
People
‘Cowards’: State leaders condemn Trump admin election actions
A raid in Georgia and continued government legal action for voter data prompted a furious response, especially after administration officials abruptly withdrew from a hastily scheduled conference appearance.
Public Safety
FirstNet reauthorization effort hits Congress
A Senate subcommittee discussed reupping the public safety network’s authority before it lapses next year, while a new House bill would do the same.
People
Expert warns of the ‘digitally invisible’ population amid yawning digital divide
It’s not just infrastructure that keeps people offline, but also a lack of digital skills and trust, warned Nicol Turner Lee of the Brookings Institution during this week’s CX Workshop.
Digital Government
North Carolina environmental agency embraces automation, process improvement
The improvements to the Department of Environmental Quality’s permitting process have helped clear over a million dollars in backlogged fees, enabling the agency to in turn hire more employees to review permits.
Artificial Intelligence
Most workers at risk from AI can transition, report finds
Recent research from the Brookings Institution warned that while most workers exposed to AI can pivot, millions in administrative and clerical roles may struggle.
Featured eBooks
Artificial Intelligence
AI preemption ‘top of mind’ for state, local tech leaders
Observers called for an intergovernmental working group as well as better collaboration, one month on from President Donald Trump’s executive order targeting “cumbersome” state AI regulations.
Digital Government
Report card finds ‘room for improvement’ in states’ school cell phone policies
Just two states — North Dakota and Rhode Island — have implemented what several groups described as a “gold standard” bell-to-bell policy. Others have more work to do.
Artificial Intelligence
House hearings highlight AI divides
Two separate hearings last week shone light on lingering issues over preempting state and local AI regulations and the role of Congress in finally forming a national standard.
People
Reddit briefly blocked on university network
Catholic University in Washington, D.C. said an automated system flagged the platform during a routine scan, and it was quickly reversed after pushback. Some worry it sets a dangerous precedent for the future.
Artificial Intelligence
Counties wrestle with data centers’ power consumption
A recent survey from the National Association of Counties found that more than half of leaders spend time discussing data centers and other energy-intensive facilities.
Emerging Tech
Feds announce two new drone test sites
The sites — the first new ones in over a decade — will be in the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and Indiana Economic Development Corporation.
Cybersecurity
House explores grid cybersecurity boosts amid growing threats
Several bills would reauthorize programs designed to protect energy infrastructure from nation-states and other threats while helping publicly owned utilities defend themselves and share information.
Digital Government
Virginia social media law takes effect amid legal challenge
Minors in the commonwealth can now only use the platforms for one hour a day, with any more time requiring parental approval via age verification. An industry group is suing to block it.
Digital Government
Texas county looks to task force to help close digital divide
Harris County, the most populous in the state, established its broadband task force in November to advise on projects, initiatives and other efforts to boost connectivity.
