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Policy & Industry Updates
Tracking the developments shaping AI, cybersecurity, energy, critical infrastructure, and emerging technology.
From federal policy shifts to emerging technology priorities, IsAdvice & Consulting highlights the updates that matter the most.
AI & Emerging Tech
Cybersecurity
Energy & Resilience
Federal Policy
Research & Innovations
National Security Science & Technology Strategy
The August 2026 strategy outlines how the U.S. will advance national security through science and technology, with priorities spanning AI, cybersecurity, critical infrastructure, energy resilience, and emerging technologies.
Executive Order: Promoting Advanced Artificial Intelligence Innovation and Security
A new executive order promoting U.S. leadership in advanced AI by strengthening cybersecurity, protecting critical systems, and supporting secure AI innovation.
White House National Policy Framework for Artificial Intelligence Legislative Recommendations
The White House released its National Policy Framework for Artificial Intelligence, outlining recommendations for a more consistent, nationwide approach to AI regulation. The framework focuses on strengthening federal oversight, improving coordination across agencies, and supporting innovation while maintaining U.S. competitiveness and security.
White House Announces Genesis Mission to Accelerate AI Innovation
The White House has launched the “Genesis Mission,” a national initiative led by the Department of Energy to accelerate scientific discovery using advanced AI. The mission will unite federal labs, universities, and industry to build a secure AI platform powered by federal datasets, high-performance computing, and automated research tools. Key milestones roll out over the next year, with an early operational demonstration expected in 2026.
White House Outlines 2027 Research Budget Goals
The White House has released its fiscal 2027 R&D priorities, emphasizing five key areas: critical and emerging technologies, energy, national and economic security, health and biotechnology, and space dominance. The memo highlights major investments in artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, semiconductors, advanced communications, and future computing, positioning AI as “a new frontier of exploration.”
AMERICA’S
AI ACTION PLAN
The Americas AI Action Plan outlines the U.S. strategy to lead in global AI development, focusing on innovation, infrastructure, and international leadership in security and diplomacy.
Executive Order Targets Smarter Wildfire Prevention and Response
In response to the devastating January 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, the President has issued an Executive Order to modernize and streamline wildfire prevention and response. The order criticizes local mismanagement and regulatory barriers that delay action and calls for the consolidation of federal wildland fire programs. It directs the Departments of the Interior and Agriculture to improve coordination, update outdated systems, and support technology-driven, commonsense strategies to help state and local governments respond more effectively to wildfire threats.
President Donald J. Trump Issues Order to Restore Trust in Federal Science
A new Executive Order aims to rebuild public trust in government science by restoring rigorous standards and transparency. Citing past misuse of scientific data and politically influenced decisions, the order mandates that federal agencies follow clear, unbiased, and evidence-based practices. It reinstates prior scientific integrity policies and promotes reproducibility, data transparency, and objective communication to ensure federal research and decision-making are based on the most credible science available.
White House Pushes for American Drone Dominance
A new Executive Order from the President aims to accelerate U.S. leadership in drone technology. The directive highlights the critical role unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) play in advancing industries like logistics, agriculture, emergency response, and public safety. It calls for the rapid commercialization and safe integration of drones into U.S. airspace, increased domestic manufacturing, and expanded global exports of American-made drones. The order emphasizes reducing reliance on foreign suppliers, strengthening supply chains, and ensuring the economic and security benefits of drone innovation reach the American public.
President Donald J. Trump Reprioritizes Cybersecurity Efforts to Protect America
President Trump has signed a new Executive Order to bolster U.S. cybersecurity. The order replaces elements of previous administrations’ policies, enhances protections against foreign cyber threats, advances secure software and encryption practices, and prioritizes AI-driven vulnerability management. It also strengthens security for connected devices and clarifies the focus of cyber sanctions, ensuring they target only malicious foreign actors.
President Donald J. Trump Advances AI Education for American Youth
On April 24, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order to promote AI education and workforce development, creating a White House Task Force on AI Education to boost early AI literacy, support teacher training, and expand AI-related job skills nationwide, ensuring America's leadership in AI for future generations.
American Public Submits Over 10,000 Comments on White House’s AI Action Plan
On April 24, 2025, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) published over 10,000 public comments gathered for the AI Action Plan, following President Trump's Executive Order to support American leadership in AI. The comments, collected from a wide range of stakeholders including academia, industry, and governments, reflect strong national interest in AI policy. Submissions covered topics like chip manufacturing, supply chain resilience, AI development, workforce training, and research.
Ensuring Commercial, Cost-Effective Solutions in Federal Contracts
On April 16, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order directing federal agencies to prioritize commercially available products and services in procurement, aiming to reduce costs and enhance efficiency. Agencies must review existing non-commercial contracts within 60 days, justifying any exceptions. This move seeks to curb unnecessary custom solutions and leverage private-sector innovations
NIST Releases New Incident Response Guidance Aligned with CSF 2.0
NIST has published updated recommendations for Incident Response, now aligned with the Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) 2.0. The new guidance is designed to help organizations strengthen their preparedness, streamline detection and response, and reduce the overall impact of incidents. It’s a great time to review your current IR policies and procedures in light of these updates. Be sure to explore the full publication and supporting online resources for practical implementation tips.
M-25-22 Driving Efficient Acquisition of Artificial Intelligence in Government
This memorandum provides updated guidance to federal agencies on responsibly acquiring artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. It supports Executive Orders 13960 and 14179, the Advancing American AI Act, and OMB Memorandum M-25-21, emphasizing the use of trustworthy, secure, and cost-effective AI to improve government efficiency and effectiveness. It replaces the previous OMB Memorandum M-24-18 and is centered around three key themes that shape its requirements.
M-25-21 Accelerating Federal Use of AI through Innovation, Governance, and Public Trust
This memorandum follows Executive Order 14179, signed on January 23, 2025, which aims to strengthen U.S. leadership in artificial intelligence (AI) and encourage responsible innovation. It directs federal agencies to enhance public services through AI while safeguarding civil rights, liberties, and privacy. The memorandum outlines guidance to support human well-being, economic competitiveness, and national security, and includes detailed implementation requirements in an appendix. It also replaces the earlier OMB Memorandum M-24-10.
NIST Special Publication 800-226: Guidelines for Evaluating Differential Privacy Guarantees
NIST has released Special Publication 800-226, offering crucial guidelines for evaluating differential privacy guarantees in AI and data governance. This publication provides a standardized framework for balancing privacy and utility, ensuring individual data protection while maintaining accuracy. It outlines real-world applications, best practices for secure implementation, and lays the groundwork for certifiable privacy standards. For AI governance experts, this is a game-changer—offering clear, actionable strategies to strengthen trust and compliance in privacy-preserving AI systems.
President Biden signs the Government Service Delivery Improvement Act (H.R. 5887) into law.
On January 4, 2025, President Biden signed the Government Service Delivery Improvement Act (H.R. 5887) into law, aiming to transform how federal agencies serve the public. The Act establishes a framework emphasizing innovation, employee empowerment, and improved customer experiences through key provisions, including appointing Service Delivery Officials, setting government-wide standards, promoting best practices, and leveraging data-driven decision-making.
National Security Memorandum on Advancing the US Leadership in AI.
Here are the main action items for agencies from the executive memorandum on strengthening U.S. leadership in AI for national security:
-Enhance AI Leadership and Innovation
-Strengthen National Security
-Promote Ethical AI Use
-Protect Civil Liberties
-Foster International Collaboration
-Advance Global AI Governance
These steps aim to keep the U.S. at the forefront of AI technology while upholding democratic values and enhancing global cooperation. It's encouraging to see this momentum toward effective governance!
-Enhance AI Leadership and Innovation
-Strengthen National Security
-Promote Ethical AI Use
-Protect Civil Liberties
-Foster International Collaboration
-Advance Global AI Governance
These steps aim to keep the U.S. at the forefront of AI technology while upholding democratic values and enhancing global cooperation. It's encouraging to see this momentum toward effective governance!
Biden-Harris Administration Unveils Critical Steps to Protect Workers from Risks of Artificial Intelligence
Since taking office, President Biden, Vice President Harris, and the Biden-Harris Administration have been proactive in leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to drive innovation and create opportunities, while ensuring that workers benefit from these advancements. President Biden's Executive Order on AI mandates the Department of Labor to create key principles to protect workers and involve them in the development and use of AI technologies. Today, the administration is introducing these principles, with Microsoft and Indeed agreeing to implement them in their workplaces.
NIST's Draft Guidance on Managing Risks in Generative AI
The U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) released four new draft publications on April 29, 2024, aimed at addressing the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) risks. These publications include the AI RMF Generative AI Profile, which outlines 12 risks and 400 actions for mitigating risks specific to Generative AI (GenAI). Building upon the NIST AI RMF framework, these drafts provide guidance on managing AI risks throughout the lifecycle, emphasizing the need for tailored approaches to address sector-specific challenges and ensuring cross-sectoral alignment in risk management strategies.
The emergence of Generative AI poses unique challenges, intensifying AI risks compared to traditional software. These risks span the AI lifecycle and extend to societal impacts, such as disinformation and long-term inequality. NIST's draft publications identify and categorize risks associated with GenAI, offering a comprehensive set of actions tailored to different stakeholders and organizational contexts. By addressing uncertainties in technology scalability, opaque training data, and diverse stakeholders, NIST aims to enhance risk governance and promote responsible AI development and deployment practices.
The emergence of Generative AI poses unique challenges, intensifying AI risks compared to traditional software. These risks span the AI lifecycle and extend to societal impacts, such as disinformation and long-term inequality. NIST's draft publications identify and categorize risks associated with GenAI, offering a comprehensive set of actions tailored to different stakeholders and organizational contexts. By addressing uncertainties in technology scalability, opaque training data, and diverse stakeholders, NIST aims to enhance risk governance and promote responsible AI development and deployment practices.
OMB Guidance on Federal AI Use
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has issued its final guidance on AI governance, innovation, and risk management for federal agencies, building upon President Biden’s Executive Order 14110. The guidance emphasizes pre-deployment AI impact assessments, transparency around AI systems and their impacts, and additional procurement obligations. Updates to the guidance include enhanced transparency requirements, recommendations for biometric identification systems, mechanisms for opting out of AI decision-making, and expanded consultation processes.
National Telecommunications and Information Administration calls for audits and investments in trustworthy AI systems.
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) under the Department of Commerce released the AI Accountability Policy Report, which includes recommendations aimed at managing risks associated with AI while harnessing its benefits. One significant recommendation is for independent audits of high-risk AI systems. These policies are intended to ensure that AI developers and deployers are accountable for their systems' behavior, promoting transparency, independent evaluations, and consequences for unacceptable risks or unfounded claims. The report outlines eight sets of policy recommendations falling into three categories: Guidance, Support, and Regulations.
NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) 2.0
The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) 2.0 serves as a guide for various entities, including industry, government agencies, and organizations, in managing cybersecurity risks. It outlines high-level cybersecurity objectives applicable to organizations of all sizes, sectors, and levels of maturity. The framework does not dictate specific methods for achieving these objectives but provides a taxonomy for understanding, assessing, prioritizing, and communicating cybersecurity efforts. It also directs users to online resources for further guidance on implementing practices and controls aligned with the desired outcomes.
FCC Makes AI-Generated Voices in Robocalls Illegal
Feb. 08, 2024 - The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has declared that calls made with AI-generated voices are considered "artificial" under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). This ruling, effective immediately, criminalizes the use of voice cloning technology commonly used in robocall scams. State Attorneys General now have additional legal means to pursue those responsible for such fraudulent calls.
California Governor Signs New AI Safety Law, Making Tech Companies Share Rules and Protect Whistleblowers
California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a new law requiring major AI companies to publicly explain how they will manage the risks of advanced AI models.
Colorado AI Act Signed by Governor Polis
Governor Polis has signed the Colorado AI Act, marking it as the first comprehensive AI regulation in the U.S. We're excited to share this historic milestone, which paves the way for robust AI governance and aims to reduce the risk of algorithmic discrimination.
Wisconsin requires labeling of AI-generated materials in campaign ads
The Wisconsin state legislature recently passed a bipartisan bill aimed at addressing the use of AI-generated deepfake content in political campaigns. The bill mandates disclosure of the use of "synthetic media," defined as content substantially produced by generative AI, in campaign advertisements. Campaigns must label such content with "Contains content generated by AI" at the beginning and end, with violators facing penalties of up to $1,000 per offense. Wisconsin joins several other states in passing similar legislation amid concerns that AI could be used to deceive voters and undermine election integrity leading up to the 2024 presidential election.
DC's Mayor Signs Order Defining DC’s AI Values and AI Strategic Plan
On February 8, 2024, Mayor Muriel Bowser signed a Mayor's Order detailing the steps the DC Government is taking to utilize artificial intelligence (AI) in public services and how both the government and the community can profit from this advancement. Additionally, the Mayor introduced DC's Artificial Intelligence Values Statement and Strategic Plan, which aims to guarantee that the District's adoption of generative AI remains in accordance with DC's core values.
Implementation of Standards for the Safe Use of Artificial Intelligence Across Virginia's Commonwealth
Governor Glenn Youngkin has issued Executive Order 30, introducing AI Education Guidelines for classrooms and implementing AI Policy and Information Technology Standards to safeguard Virginia's databases and protect individual data. Virginia is at the forefront of AI innovation with these pioneering standards and guidelines.
New Jersey Passes New Data Privacy Law.
On January 16, Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey signed S332/A1971 into law, making New Jersey the 14th state to adopt comprehensive data privacy legislation. This new legislation mandates that certain entities, including internet websites and online providers, must notify consumers about the collection and disclosure of their personal data.
Effective date: 16 Jan 2025
Effective date: 16 Jan 2025
Governor Moore Announces Action to Transform Maryland Executive Branch Digital Services
Governor Wes Moore announced four key initiatives to transform Maryland's state government digitally: responsible AI use, user-centered design, equitable IT access, and strengthened digital infrastructure partnerships. Emphasizing modernization's importance, Moore aims to improve user experiences, accessibility, and cybersecurity. The Moore-Miller Administration, with the Maryland Department of Information Technology, is committed to delivering technology solutions for enhanced safety, efficiency, and productivity.
Catalyzing the Responsible and Productive Use of Artificial Intelligence," Maryland's Governor Moore's visionary initiative to transform the state's IT services.
Key Highlights:
AI Regulations: A comprehensive set of regulations to guide and govern the responsible deployment of Artificial Intelligence within the state.
Enhanced Accessibility: Policies ensuring seamless access to state platforms for all residents, fostering inclusivity and efficiency.
Collaborative Cybersecurity: Embracing a collaborative approach to cybersecurity, emphasizing shared responsibility and protection against digital threats.
Innovation Hub: The establishment of a dedicated office committed to driving user-centric digital innovations, promoting a forward-thinking and responsive government.
AI Regulations: A comprehensive set of regulations to guide and govern the responsible deployment of Artificial Intelligence within the state.
Enhanced Accessibility: Policies ensuring seamless access to state platforms for all residents, fostering inclusivity and efficiency.
Collaborative Cybersecurity: Embracing a collaborative approach to cybersecurity, emphasizing shared responsibility and protection against digital threats.
Innovation Hub: The establishment of a dedicated office committed to driving user-centric digital innovations, promoting a forward-thinking and responsive government.
New Jersey Governor Establishes State Artificial Intelligence Task Force
Building upon New Jersey’s legacy of leading the next frontiers of discovery and innovation, Governor Phil Murphy today established an Artificial Intelligence Task Force charged with studying emerging artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The Task Force will be responsible for analyzing the potential impacts of AI on society as well as preparing recommendations to identify government actions encouraging the ethical use of AI technologies...
NYC Artificial Intelligence Action Plan; Local Law 144
Artificial intelligence (AI) is often described as a revolutionary technology that is rapidly changing the way we work, travel, conduct research, deliver healthcare, provide public services, and more. In particular, the emergence of groundbreaking generative AI tools over the last year has simultaneously sparked tremendous excitement, profound concern, and intense speculation about their potential far-reaching impacts on humanity...
Commonwealth of Virginia Executive Directive
By virtue of the authority vested in me as Governor, I hereby issue this Executive Directive to ensure the responsible, ethical, and transparent use of artificial intelligence technology by the state government in order to protect the rights of Virginians and develop targeted, innovative uses for this emerging...
Governor Newsom Signs Executive Order to Prepare California for the Progress of Artificial Intelligence
California is the global hub for generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) – we are the natural leader in this emerging field of technology – tools that could very well change the world. To capture its benefits for the good of society, but also to protect against its potential harms, Governor Newsom issued an executive order today laying out how California’s measured approach will focus on shaping the future of ethical, transparent, and trustworthy AI, while remaining the world’s AI leader...
Oklahoma Executive Order
Oklahoma Executive Order
The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) in collaboration with the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) is issuing specific guidance pursuant to Public Law 116-260, The AI in Government Act of 2020 (the Act). In accordance with the Act, OPM is required to identify key skills and competencies needed for positions related to Artificial Intelligence (AI)...
The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) in collaboration with the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) is issuing specific guidance pursuant to Public Law 116-260, The AI in Government Act of 2020 (the Act). In accordance with the Act, OPM is required to identify key skills and competencies needed for positions related to Artificial Intelligence (AI)...
Chicago Artificial Intelligence Video Interview Act
Disclosure of the use of artificial intelligence analysis. An employer that asks applicants to record video interviews and uses an artificial intelligence analysis of the applicant-submitted videos shall do all of the following when considering applicants for positions based in Illinois before asking applicants to submit video interviews...
Virginia's Consumer Data Protection Act
The Consumer Data Protection Act empowers individuals with the right to access and request the deletion of their personal data held by businesses. Moreover, it mandates companies to conduct comprehensive data protection assessments, specifically concerning the processing of personal data for targeted advertising and sales. Notably, this legislation includes provisions to regulate the utilization of de-identified data, ensuring that even modified data, no longer directly identifying individuals, is subject to scrutiny.
Division of Insurance Partners with ORCAA to Protect Colorado Insurance Consumers
Governor Polis of Colorado signed Senate Bill 21-169 into law last summer, aimed at restricting insurers' use of external consumer data to prevent unfair discrimination based on various factors such as race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, or gender expression. The Division of Insurance (DOI) is collaborating with O'Neil Risk Consulting & Algorithmic Auditing (ORCAA), led by Cathy O'Neill, to implement the law. The legislation responds to concerns about the potential harm to protected groups, including black, indigenous, and people of color, resulting from the unchecked use of big data in insurance practices, despite the technology's potential benefits for both insurers and consumers.
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