Sophia Fox-Sowell

6 days ago | statescoop.com | Sophia Fox-Sowell

The Federal Communications Commission on Wednesday proposed new rules to enhance the accuracy of location information provided during wireless 911 calls, aimed at improving how emergency operators locate people who call from cell phones, especially when they’re inside large buildings. While many emergency calls include general location information, pinpointing an exact floor or apartment can be difficult. The FCC has campaigned for several years to change that.

1 week ago | statescoop.com | Sophia Fox-Sowell

This week, Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey signed legislation creating a shark alert system for Baldwin and Mobile Counties, aiming to enhance public safety along the state’s Gulf Coast and bay areas. The system, developed by Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, will notify beachgoers and first responders of shark sightings and attacks through wireless emergency alerts to mobile devices. It will alert on-duty first responders, including lifeguards, emergency medical services and law enforcement.

1 week ago | statescoop.com | Sophia Fox-Sowell

When the Utah Office of AI Policy was established last year, officials understood that in order for the state to adopt artificial intelligence that serves residents equitably and transparently, it had to be built on sound governance and ethical principles. Zach Boyd, the office’s director, said that’s why it partnered with the Aspen Institute’s Policy Academy on a yearlong collaboration designed to help state governments build responsible AI policy.

1 week ago | statescoop.com | Sophia Fox-Sowell

The permitting process in Los Angeles is getting a boost from artificial intelligence as residents look to rebuild their communities after the devastating Eaton and Palisades wildfires in January, which destroyed more than 16,000 homes, businesses and other buildings. Gov. Gavin Newsom last Wednesday announced a new artificial intelligence tool designed to expedite the building permit approval process in Los Angeles City and County.

1 week ago | statescoop.com | Sophia Fox-Sowell

Gov. Greg Abbott on Saturday issued a disaster declaration for Marlin, Texas, in response to a failure of the city’s water treatment system. The declaration allows the city to access emergency resources and bypass certain regulatory requirements to expedite the restoration of water services.