This Week in Government Technology – February 16th – 23rd, 2025

Federal AI Initiatives

Preserving Federal AI Leadership Structures

A recent op-ed from StateScoop emphasizes the importance of retaining Biden-era Chief AI Officers (CAIOs) under the Trump administration. The piece argues that CAIOs offer two critical advantages:

  • Specialized Expertise: These leaders bring deep technical knowledge essential for integrating advanced AI tools into federal workflows.
  • Clear Accountability: Having dedicated AI leadership ensures that modernization efforts are transparent, coordinated, and aligned with national priorities.

State AI Initiatives

Nevada’s Ambitious Statewide AI Modernization Project

Nevada continues to lead statewide government modernization with its ongoing Enterprise Resource Planning System Modernization Project. The initiative, launched in 2022, focuses on overhauling decades-old infrastructure and digitizing essential services:

  • Financial System Overhaul: A major milestone was reached in mid-2023 when Nevada’s CIO announced a complete transformation of the state’s financial systems, including upgrades for digital payments and improved interagency collaboration.
  • “One Nevada” Digital Portal: This week, Nevada unveiled its next major objective—creating a centralized portal to unify health and human services (HHS) access. The portal will allow residents to use a single digital ID for streamlined access to services across state agencies, with plans to expand this model to all state services.
  • AI Regulations and Procurement Framework: Recognizing the growing importance of AI, Nevada’s leadership is developing guidelines for AI use in government service delivery, ensuring ethical deployment and responsible innovation.

Castle Rock, Colorado, Leverages AI for Water Conservation

In Castle Rock, Colorado, the municipal government is addressing significant water loss caused by underground pipe leaks—enough to supply 1,000 families annually. Officials have partnered with a Canadian AI firm specializing in AI-powered leak detection technology to tackle the issue. This collaboration aims to modernize the town’s infrastructure while significantly improving water conservation efforts.

AI Leadership for State and Local Governments: A Growing Trend

The concept of appointing state-level Chief AI Officers is gaining traction, following the federal model’s success. Analysts argue that specialized leadership will help states accelerate AI adoption, foster cross-agency collaboration, and ensure alignment with ethical standards.

AI Tools Tailored for Local Government Efficiency

Route Fifty’s latest op-ed argues that AI solutions should prioritize frontline employees in state and local governments. Emphasizing employee training for better public engagement and allowing staff to focus on direct community service by automating routine administrative tasks.