AI is a ‘catalyst’ to solve ‘long-standing challenges,’ state leaders say
While it may be tempting to just think about use cases for the technology, speakers at the Code for America Summit said it can also be an opportunity to improve data, service design and workforce development.
Schools are ‘strikingly collaborative’ amid cybersecurity threats, K-12 leader says
While it may appear tricky to get schools to share information across state and jurisdictional lines, one observer says there are reasons to be optimistic amid multiplying threats.
Texas Cyber Command will mean ‘expanding’ cybersecurity help, state official says
A bill to create the command is being pushed by Gov. Greg Abbott, and a Texas tech leader said it will help the state better achieve its cyber goals.
House-passed budget bill includes state AI moratorium
Lawmakers passed the package under reconciliation just before Memorial Day, with the 10-year ban on state AI regulation intact. Its future remains uncertain in the Senate.
How Idaho uses data to fill in-demand jobs
The Idaho LAUNCH scholarship program grants students up to $8,000 to cover tuition and fees at eligible institutions, if they are looking to be trained in an area that needs more workers.
Regional approach could solve water sector’s cyber challenges
The federal government has repeatedly warned of threats to critical infrastructure, which faces budget and staffing challenges. Better collaboration could help ease some of those challenges.
At least 20 states have reportedly lost digital equity grant funding
States across the country have had their grant funding pulled after President Donald Trump announced he was ending the program. Program supporters say they are plotting their next steps.
DOGE trend hits Texas, Jacksonville governments
The Lone Star State became the latest to sign legislation establishing its own Department of Government Efficiency, while Jacksonville appears to be among the first cities to set up a DOGE.
House budget bill would put 10-year pause on state AI regulation
The bill before the House Energy and Commerce Committee under the budget reconciliation process would prevent states from enforcing “any law or regulation” for AI models. It may run afoul of Senate rules.
BEAD uncertainty swirls, joined by Trump’s threats to the Digital Equity Act
State leaders want more guidance from the federal government amid a 90-day delay in their final plans. President Donald Trump, meanwhile, said he will kill a related digital equity program.
Encryption needs balance between privacy and transparency, Virginia tech leader says
The recent “Signalgate” incident highlighted reliance on encrypted messaging apps and tools, even as state and local officials must be cautious to preserve the public’s right to see their communications.
Senate votes to repeal rule allowing Wi-Fi hotspot loans
Senators passed a resolution overturning an FCC rule that allows schools and libraries to use E-Rate funds to loan out Wi-Fi hotspots. Opponents said the effort would only widen the digital divide.
Data centers defend environmental record amid AI push
Several states are worried about the power and water impacts of the centers needed to power the technology. But the industry moved to assure those concerned that they have it under control.
Building a pipeline of state and local tech workers
States continue to fret about the brain drain from a generation of retirees. But some are thinking hard about how to get the next generation in, whether they be early-career employees or existing ones in need of new skills.
REAL ID enforcement deadline looms for states
In just two days, domestic travelers must use the new ID after years of implementation delays. To prepare, some states have opened DMV offices longer, while others have asked for loosened rules or another extension.
Minneapolis automates food permitting, removes ‘two-feet high’ paper stack
Having previously relied on handwritten permit applications and taking payment by phone, the city now uses cloud-based software to automate much of the process and make it more efficient.
Nevada turns to AI to speed up unemployment appeals
The state partnered with Google Public Sector on a system that analyzes appeals hearings against state and federal law to help adjudicators reach a decision. They say it’s made the process four times quicker.
States used cyber grants for ‘hundreds’ of key projects, report finds
The Government Accountability Office found that the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program was wildly popular, but state leaders are worried about sustained funding.
Chattanooga to establish nation’s first quantum tech center
The center, backed by the EPB public utility and others, will serve as a quantum networking and computing hub and help develop applications for the technology.
How Maryland’s social media team responded to Baltimore bridge collapse
The Key Bridge collapsed a little over a year ago after a container ship collided with a supporting pier. Communications staff had the mammoth task of keeping the public informed and dispelling misinformation.
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