Route Fifty

A permitting reform effort in Pennsylvania could serve as a model for other states looking to streamline operations and improve service delivery, according to a fellow at the Institute for Responsive Government.

Advocates and elected officials warned of the harm if the Universal Service Fund is struck down as unconstitutionally financed. Justices appeared inclined to preserve the fund.

The Partnership for Public Service, a nonprofit that looks to build a better government, announced its new AI Center for Government, an effort to promote artificial intelligence across all levels of government including state and local.

By enabling incarcerated individuals to practice their life and personal skills in virtual reality simulations, California authorities hope to help them succeed in society and reduce recidivism. ?? @kaitlevinson

.@publicservice, a nonprofit that looks to build a better government, announced its new AI Center for Government, an effort to promote artificial intelligence across all levels of government including state and local. ?? @chris_teale

While web accessibility is a priority for many governments, research shows agencies struggle to to find the staff, time or money to make the changes necessary. Learn how officials can help move the needle on accessibility here:

After Wisconsin embraced a shift to a cloud-based occupational licensing portal, officials saw a 35% increase in the number of licenses it issued in 2023-2024 compared to any other two-year period. Learn more here:

A new EO from President Trump puts the onus on state and local governments to prepare for cyberattacks and natural disasters.

With interagency data sharing, leadership, tested tools and data security, emerging tech like AI could help states and localities be better prepared for catastrophe.

An initial grant will help researchers study the feasibility of offering services at the state’s 185 libraries in a bid to help people access care even from remote areas.