01/05/2026
AI isn’t a “someday” technology for state governments anymore — it’s already here. This GovTech article looks ahead to 2026 and explores how states may adopt AI, where they’re experimenting, and how they’re trying to balance innovation with oversight. The next couple of years could be a turning point for how government uses AI in real, practical ways.
State governments are expected to deploy AI in 2026 with an increased focus on returns on investment as they face complex policymaking restrictions enacted by a recent executive order signed by President Donald Trump.