Some city sources have attributed a cyber incident in early March to ransomware, although the municipality has only called it a “network disruption.” Birmingham is using paper-based processes to pay staff, but public effects may be more minor.
The Alabama Genetic Privacy Data Act, now under consideration by legislators, would require DNA testing companies to get consent from consumers before sharing their genetic information. Currently, no such privacy guarantee exists in the state.
A state spokesman says all normal business operations have been restored. Meanwhile, the hacktivist group, Anonymous Sudan, is claiming credit for the attack through statements on its Telegram channel.
Contracts and federal grant monies aim to rapidly bring high-speed Internet to many of the state’s 67 counties. The developments follow last-mile broadband work paid for by more than $82 million in state funding.
Infrastructure investment firm Meridiam will develop, build and run a $230 million network connecting 53,000 households and businesses in six counties. Developer Yellowhammer Networks, owned by Meridiam, will fund the project.
Plus, support remains strong for continuing the Affordable Connectivity Program, a Massachusetts planning program expands and Alabama gets $150 million in broadband funding.
The legislation would set mandatory AI safety testing requirements before training or market release and would mandate an internal fail-safe be included in all AI systems to trigger an immediate shutdown if issues are detected.
The Alabama Center for the Arts is being renovated into a STEAM Imagination Center, with a new degree program in design innovations that will include classes in computer systems information and additive manufacturing.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey is aligning with national trends on AI regulation, establishing a task force via executive order to examine the current and future applications of the technology in state government.
Plus, Alabama announces $188 million for broadband; California sees digital discrimination legislation introduced; Phoenix opens a digital skills training center; and more.
