State Government

TPWD’s new internal AI policy outlines rules for the responsible use of generative AI tools by agency staff. All AI tools must be approved by the IT Division, with strict limits on high-risk use cases.

A state Senate proposal would create a pilot program mandating three years of testing with human drivers for autonomous cabs. Among their criticism, opponents said it would create an “unnecessary barrier.”

Stolen data from the data breach was published online as emergency management and law enforcement officials in jurisdictions across the country took their subscriptions offline.

The new plan from the Tennessee AI Advisory Council lays out four strategic pillars of focus — on pilots, infrastructure, workforce development and governance — to modernize services and strengthen the economy.

A state system that put in place sensors and video analytics to detect wrong-way vehicles has resulted in nearly 83 percent self-correcting. The technology was installed starting in August 2023.

Officials are working with InnovateUS to train public employees statewide on working with AI. Empowering people, CIO Shawnzia Thomas said, is a significant part of achieving digital transformation.

The state lost out on $1 billion through the data center exemption in fiscal 2024, up from $685 million in fiscal 2023, according to the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission.

Three tech executives describe similar challenges across jurisdictions — from replacing lost federal tools to bridging information silos among agencies, utilities and communities.

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration has approved the state’s final proposal for how it would spend funds it received through the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program.

A state-by-state AI policy scan from the Council of State Governments offers a clear and comparative view of the AI governance landscape across the U.S., even as the federal government eyes restrictions.

The state’s acting CIO Bryanna Pardoe helmed its digital experience office until October. She has since been selected to lead technology efforts and serve as deputy secretary for information technology.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said the city is an apt choice to house the new Texas Cyber Command to protect state agencies and infrastructure from cyber attacks. It will, he said, be central to safeguarding cyber interests.

Tai Phan, who became Oklahoma’s chief technology officer in March, will now lead the state's efforts to expand responsible AI adoption and support agency innovation.

Connecticut is committing up to $121 million to develop quantum technology, state officials and leaders of the University of Connecticut and Yale University announced Thursday.

Policy and other changes have slowed the rollout of the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program. Internet providers, residents and others are frustrated by its lack of tangible results.

A recent cybersecurity incident narrowly averted with federal help emphasized the importance of training and standardized cybersecurity tools, the state CIO and chief information security officer said.

As municipalities move to enact ordinances related to data center construction, a few communities are turning to ballot measures. At the state level, however, some lawmakers are rushing to pass legislation.

Some education officials say building trust with parents and students has been key to the success of California's Phone-Free School Act, and will be essential in the conversations to come.