North Carolina Governor Creates AI Leadership Council, Accelerator

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has signed an executive order establishing a statewide artificial intelligence framework that includes the creation of an AI Leadership Council and an AI Accelerator within the Department of Information Technology. The council, co-chaired by Secretary of Information Technology Teena Piccione and Secretary of Commerce Lee Lilley, will advise the governor and state agencies on AI strategy, governance, training, and public safety, aiming to responsibly harness AI's opportunities while mitigating risks. The initiative also includes AI literacy and fraud prevention programs to prepare the workforce and enhance economic growth, aligning with major investments such as Amazon's $10 billion AI innovation campus in Richmond County. This move positions North Carolina as a national leader in AI governance and deployment, joining other states like Rhode Island, Virginia, and Washington in developing comprehensive AI strategies. Governor Stein emphasized that AI can transform work and life, and the council will help ensure the technology benefits residents and the economy. The council includes members from diverse sectors, including government, technology, and education, and will deliver its first report by mid-2026.