Media CoverageOct 17, 2025

How these states are making their own rules for AI

Several U.S. states are independently developing and implementing AI strategies to enhance public services and improve efficiency, especially as federal AI legislation progresses slowly. Michigan, Maryland, and Utah exemplify this trend through their unique approaches.

Michigan

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity has partnered with AI company Syncurrent to assist grant applicants in identifying suitable funding opportunities across state and federal programs. This collaboration led to the creation of the "MI Funding Hub," which significantly reduces the time local governments spend searching for grants—from months to mere minutes. To date, over 100 communities have benefited from this initiative.

Maryland

Maryland's state agencies are utilizing AI platforms such as Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, and Amazon Bedrock for tasks like document drafting, summarization, and research. The Department of Human Services has introduced an AI chatbot to assist residents in navigating the SUN Bucks program, which supports over 600,000 students during summer breaks when school meals are unavailable. Additionally, the state is exploring AI applications to streamline licensing and permitting processes, aiming to make it easier for residents to start businesses or obtain necessary permits.

Utah

Utah has implemented Google Gemini across most state agencies, enhancing various administrative functions. The state's commerce department employs AI to process professional international licenses, such as those in nursing, effectively addressing challenges posed by documents in multiple languages. Furthermore, Utah is developing an online portal featuring an AI chatbot to assist residents with tasks like renewing driver's licenses or accessing social services, thereby improving user experience and operational efficiency.

These state-level initiatives highlight a proactive approach to AI adoption, allowing for tailored solutions that address specific local needs while setting precedents for responsible AI integration in government operations.

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Syncurrent | Transforming Grant Discovery for Local Governments