National League of Cities Launches Forum for Local Governments to Help City Leaders Leverage AI Effectively

The National League of Cities has launched an AI forum currently comprising 20 members as Florida presses for an AI Bill of Rights.

The National League of Cities (NLC) introduced the AI and Emerging Technology Forum last week to help municipal leaders explore AI use responsibly in local government. This initiative arrives amid Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s push for state legislation regulating AI, spurred by concerns after a mass shooting in which ChatGPT was used minutes before the attack.

The forum comprises 20 local leaders and will conduct webinars and workshops throughout the year to promote proactive policies and planning around AI. Meanwhile, Florida’s Senate has overwhelmingly approved an AI Bill of Rights that includes prohibitions on chatbots interacting with minors without parental consent and imposes fines of $50,000 for unresolved violations within 45 days. Governor DeSantis has pressured the Florida House to follow suit, criticizing delays and framing the issue as a defense against “big tech.” Additionally, the Florida Attorney General recently announced a criminal investigation into OpenAI’s role related to the shooting.

Applications for the NLC forum are expected to open in the future, with webinars and workshops planned to support local governments in managing AI challenges.

Montana cities and counties might find value in the NLC’s emerging technology efforts as AI adoption grows to address workforce and budget constraints. Given Montana’s dispersed population and emphasis on local governance, a cautious, structured approach to AI regulation and use could help safeguard community interests while fostering innovation.

Nonprofit launches forum to help city leaders leverage AI effectively
By Kaitlyn Levinson, Route Fifty