Allow States to Lead the Way on AI
At the top of NASCIO’s list is AI — acknowledging the accelerating impact of generative AI technologies on government services and operations. According to NASCIO, states have often acted ahead of federal policymakers by developing tailored AI strategies to improve public services, manage risks and protect sensitive data.
While federal discussions continue around AI regulation, NASCIO stressed that blanket moratoriums or overly broad federal mandates risk undermining innovative state policies and duplicating efforts. Instead, the association urged Congress and federal agencies to partner with states, taking into account existing state frameworks and expertise.
NASCIO also called for federal support — including funding and workforce development resources — to help states effectively implement and govern AI programs without service disruption or compromised security.
This focus mirrors broader trends in state technology leadership. Many states already embed AI in modernization plans, while CIOs emphasize ethical use, data protection and workforce readiness when adopting emerging technologies.
TECH TRENDS: AI is a top management priority for state governments.
Reauthorize the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program
Cybersecurity remains a perennial concern, and NASCIO’s second priority underscores the need to reauthorize and strengthen the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP). Established under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the program offers billions in federal dollars to help states and localities improve their security posture.
NASCIO highlighted how these funds have supported essential initiatives, from migrating to secure .gov domains to installing multifactor authentication and expanding cyber training. But with the current program nearing expiration, NASCIO urged Congress to enact a long-term reauthorization that is both practical for states to implement and backed by appropriate funding levels.
The organization also recommended that grant guidance promote flexibility, emphasize a “whole-of-state” cybersecurity approach and incorporate shared services models that help smaller jurisdictions build capacities they might otherwise lack.
EXPLORE: States prioritize shared services with federal funding.
Encourage Adoption of the .Gov Domain
Third on NASCIO’s list is the continued adoption of the .gov domain by state and local governments. The .gov domain — managed by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency — offers enhanced security and public trust compared with generic web addresses.
Despite progress and measures such as waiving the annual registration fee to lower barriers, many local governments have yet to transition to .gov domains. NASCIO called on CISA to create a stakeholder advisory group and expand technical assistance to help more jurisdictions make the conversion. Expanding .gov adoption remains a key strategy for reinforcing trust in government digital services and combating misinformation.
Harmonize Disparate Federal Cybersecurity Regulations
In another priority, NASCIO advocates for harmonizing the federal cybersecurity regulations that states must navigate when exchanging data with federal programs. State CIOs have repeatedly pointed out that conflicting federal requirements — even when aimed at similar outcomes — create unnecessary burden and compliance costs.
NASCIO recommends that Congress and agencies embrace Government Accountability Office recommendations and empower the Office of Management and Budget to coordinate cybersecurity standards across federal bodies. Streamlining requirements and audits, NASCIO says, will save taxpayer dollars while improving security outcomes.
DIVE DEEPER: Here are 2026 tech trends for state and local government.
Reauthorize First Responder Network Authority
Finally, NASCIO urged the reauthorization of FirstNet, the nationwide broadband network for first responders originally established after the 9/11 attacks. With statutory authority set to expire in 2027, NASCIO highlighted FirstNet’s value to states for ensuring interoperable communications during emergencies, from wildfires and hurricanes to public safety incidents.
State CIOs rely on FirstNet in crisis situations, and NASCIO pledged to work with federal partners to convey how critical sustained authority and investment in FirstNet are for emergency response infrastructure.
Taken together, these federal advocacy priorities reflect the ongoing intersection of state technology challenges and federal policymaking. With cybersecurity threats intensifying, digital services evolving rapidly and regulatory environments shifting, NASCIO’s agenda seeks to ensure that federal action complements — rather than disrupts — state innovation and governance.
