California eyes digital divide while pursuing AI

While California looks ahead to the potential of generative artificial intelligence, it’s critical that the state also keep in mind its residents who aren’t tech-savvy, the state’s top technology official tells StateScoop in a video interview. State Chief Information Officer Liana Bailey-Crimmins claims that about 20% of the state’s residents don’t have broadband access and that many others don’t know how to use modern devices. She points to the state’s work developing an 8,000 middle-mile broadband network as key to advancing connectivity, along with the state’s development of a digital equity plan. “As I think of generative AI and emerging technologies, it’s really important as we advance as a society that we don’t leave anybody behind. It’s very important that as we’re thinking of new solutions, as we’re thinking of new websites, there’s people that still don’t have access,” she says.

This video was recorded on Oct. 1, 2024, at the National Association of State Chief Information Officers annual conference in New Orleans.