News
Top Story
What to Know:
- The Department of Cannabis Control is asking the Legislature for money to support IT enhancements and comply with recently signed legislation.
- Assembly Bill 8 created new oversight and enforcement mandates for the department that will require funding and resources.
- The department has also issued an RFP for a new Laboratory Information Management System Replacement project, with bids due in March.
News
Under the order, the California Department of Technology, the Office of Data and Innovation and other state agencies must examine the most significant and beneficial ways generative AI can be used by the state within 60 days.
During the 2022-23 fiscal year, the California Department of Technology led the spending on IT goods among all departments in state government.
As part of Industry Insider — California’s ongoing efforts to educate readers on state agencies, their IT plans and initiatives, here’s the latest in our periodic series of interviews with departmental IT leaders.
“The state’s IT security workforce must be prepared for unique challenges,” said Crystal Holcomb, deputy director for CDT’s Office of Professional Development. “Our security-focused programs are in high demand, so we’re excited to offer the Cybersecurity Boot Camp for a third year.”
The Department of State Hospitals is recruiting for a chief data officer/deputy director, and the Department of Human Resources is seeking a chief technology officer.
The portable devices from Chico-based Rescue42, which function like mobile cell towers, are being used during wildfires when communication is lost. The devices can last for up to 10 days.
The city of Los Angeles’ adopted budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year commits millions of dollars to tech projects that would improve radio and 311 systems and integrate data on homelessness to aid in analysis.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles’ ongoing mobile driver’s license pilot will let a larger group of participants show their driver’s licenses from their cellphones at a select number of stores and airports.
“We are thrilled to have Kathy join the Google and Mandiant team,” said Jon Ford, head of Mandiant State, Local and Education Consulting Services. “She is a transformational cybersecurity leader helping our clients become more resilient to attacks.”
Government entities in the early stages of technology projects include the California Department of Transportation, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the Los Angeles Unified School District.
Meta confirmed it was in touch with Mayor Matt Mahan about the issue but didn’t elaborate on whether the company would take any action. Snapchat, TikTok and X did not respond to a request for comment.
In its portion of California’s $310.8 billion state budget for FY 2023-2024, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services received the more than $150 million it sought to improve cybersecurity and 911 capabilities.
The recruitments are being conducted by the California Secretary of State’s Office and the Department of Toxic Substances Control.
Services that the department purchased in the first six months of 2023 included licensing, recruiting, cabling and executive training.
As part of Industry Insider — California’s ongoing efforts to educate readers on state agencies, their IT plans and initiatives, here’s the latest in our periodic series of interviews with departmental IT leaders.
Industry Insider — California will observe Labor Day on Monday and will not be publishing a newsletter. The daily update will resume Tuesday. The staff of Industry Insider wishes our readers and friends a safe and meaningful holiday.
“No matter what we do, government has to rely on its industry partners,” says Aman Bhullar, chief information officer and assistant registrar-recorder for Los Angeles County.
A surveillance tool shares local data with out-of-state agencies — a practice among many police departments and one that some lawyers, privacy advocates and legislators say is illegal.
“As part of my new role, I will be working closely with my Microsoft friends to strengthen our partnership and explore new opportunities for collaboration,” Louie Meletlidis says.
“We are thrilled to have Bruce join the GitLab Public Sector team. With his many years of experience and passion for supporting the government and education community, he’s going to make a great addition,” said Andy Chai-Seong, GitLab’s director of U.S. state and local government and education sales.
GCOM offers a range of SaaS services in 32 states, while OnCore Consulting has a focus on California state agencies that deal with health and human services, tax, pension and other areas.
Contributed
One secure, scalable, FedRAMP High-authorized platform for state and local agencies.
Why Experience Must Drive Digital Transformation in Government
Public sector agencies across all levels, from city and state to tribal government to federal agencies, face the ongoing challenge of streamlining workflows. This includes collaborating and sharing data about budgets, programs, spending, decision-making, meetings, and so much more.
Upcoming Events
Discover how AI and the latest innovations from Oracle AI World can help your organization streamline operations and accelerate digital transformation.
Wednesday, March 4, 2026 | 9:30am at the CA Department of Technology
