This Week in Government Technology – August 4th-11th, 2024

In this week’s edition of This Week in Government Technology, we explore the growing influence of AI in public sector initiatives across the United States. From the launch of NACo’s AI Leadership Academy to empower county officials to California’s strategic partnership with Nvidia to enhance AI education and the deployment of AI technology by AC Transit to address illegal parking, these stories highlight the dynamic and diverse applications of AI in governance.

NACo Launches AI Leadership Academy for County Officials

The National Association of Counties (NACo) has launched the Artificial Intelligence Leadership Academy, a six-week online program designed to equip county government employees with the knowledge and tools to effectively implement AI in public service. The curriculum, developed in collaboration with industry experts and academics, addresses key aspects of AI, including understanding its capabilities and mitigating risks such as bias and misinformation. The program aims to empower government leaders with practical and actionable insights to navigate the challenges of AI in governance, enhancing their ability to lead in an increasingly digital landscape.

California and Nvidia Expand AI Resources in Education

California has partnered with Nvidia to enhance artificial intelligence education and resources across the state’s colleges, particularly focusing on community colleges. This collaboration aims to equip students, educators, and professionals with cutting-edge AI skills through new curricula, certifications, AI labs, and workshops. The initiative is designed to prepare Californians for emerging roles in AI, including opportunities within state government, and to ensure they can leverage this rapidly advancing technology for career advancement.

AC Transit Deploys AI Technology to Curb Illegal Parking

The Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District (AC Transit) in Northern California has implemented AI-powered cameras on its buses to detect vehicles illegally parked at bus stops. The program began on August 9, 2024, and aims to improve transit efficiency by identifying and penalizing violators. Violators will receive warning notices initially, but starting October 7, 2024, citations with a fine of $110 will be issued. The AI technology captures video and images of violations, which law enforcement reviews before sending citations. Privacy measures are in place to ensure that non-violation footage is quickly deleted.

The Role of AI in Enhancing Fire Safety

A year after the devastating wildfire in Lahaina, Hawaii, which claimed 102 lives, significant efforts have been made to rebuild and enhance disaster preparedness, with artificial intelligence playing an increasingly important role. The state has introduced new firefighting policies, expanded grassland management, and upgraded the electrical grid with AI-powered cameras to detect early signs of fire. However, despite these advancements, critical vulnerabilities remain due to financial constraints. Residents worry about the island’s readiness for future fires while debates persist over funding necessary safety improvements, including a proposed climate impact fee.