NASCIO Sets 2025 Federal Advocacy Priorities for AI and Cybersecurity
The Facts -
- NASCIO's 2025 priorities include AI, cybersecurity, and the .gov domain.
- State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program faces uncertainty due to funding pauses.
- Cyber workforce shortages and AI governance need collaborative federal-state solutions.
NASCIO Outlines Key Federal Priorities for 2025: Security and AI Governance at the Forefront
The National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) has rolled out its federal advocacy priorities for 2025, spotlighting the significant demands state technology leaders have from the federal government concerning artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and grant funding.
Although some terminology has been updated from the previous year, NASCIO's core priorities remain consistent: artificial intelligence, the adoption of the .gov domain, efficient execution of federal cyber grant funding, addressing cybersecurity workforce shortages, and advocating for non-conflicting federal cybersecurity regulations.
Alex Whitaker, NASCIO’s director of government affairs, shared with StateScoop that NASCIO has already communicated these priorities to the new administration, following contact from President Donald Trump’s transition team. He indicated that while NASCIO retains many existing relationships with federal entities like the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), efforts are underway to foster new connections with the incoming administration and the Republican-controlled Congress.
State and Local Cyber Grants
Since its launch by the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program, designed with a $1 billion budget for state-level cybersecurity enhancements, remains a top focus for NASCIO. IT officials from various states have expressed anticipation for third-year funding, essential for continuing cybersecurity improvements.
In light of recent developments, NASCIO is advising states to maintain collaboration with CISA and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, key administrators of the program. Furthermore, the grant, which necessitates increased state matching funds annually, is seen as a stepping stone for sustainable cybersecurity strategies beyond individual federal initiatives.
Whitaker expressed uncertainty about the program's future due to recent executive orders from Trump, notably one instructing agencies to "immediately pause" funding from the infrastructure bill. An OMB memo clarified that this pause pertains to Biden-era climate change policies, yet ambiguity surrounding the cyber grants persists among state officials.
NASCIO advocates for the continuation and extension of the cyber grant program. Whitaker emphasized, “We’ve seen this money put to really good use in the states,” highlighting enhanced collaboration between state and local governments, a significant outcome of the grant's requirements.
State officials shared that the cyber grant program has fortified state-local government relationships. Tracy Barnes, former Indiana CIO, remarked, “What we’ve done to reconnect with local governments and really bolster the entire state’s technology and cybersecurity posture, that has felt phenomenal.”
.Gov Domain and Cyber Workforce
NASCIO continues to advocate for the widespread adoption of the .gov domain, which CISA manages. The domain, recommended for its security benefits and public trust, has seen slow yet steady adoption since the removal of its registration fee in 2021.
This year, NASCIO suggests the formation of a “stakeholder advisory group” including state CIOs to support .gov adoption in local governments. They also propose making .gov usage a criterion for eligibility in the cyber grant program.
Cybersecurity workforce shortages remain a challenge for many states. NASCIO recommends a “collaborative approach” involving state-federal partnerships and enhanced training programs to address this issue. Meredith Ward, NASCIO’s executive deputy director, anticipates an exacerbation of workforce shortages as more senior IT personnel retire.
Efforts towards “harmonized” cybersecurity regulations continue, as NASCIO members frequently report frustrations over conflicting federal audit standards.
‘Far off-mission’
The future of state-federal cybersecurity policy interactions may be significantly impacted by the new DHS leadership. Kristi Noem, recently confirmed as DHS Secretary, indicated during her confirmation hearing that she intends to redirect CISA’s focus back to its intended mission, emphasizing support for critical infrastructure and small businesses.
Noem emphasized a “comprehensive whole-of-government approach to cybersecurity,” leveraging private-public partnerships and integrating advanced technologies to secure the nation’s digital space.
NASCIO’s final major priority remains the governance of artificial intelligence. Whitaker stressed the importance of federal-state collaboration in AI policy development to avoid past missteps in cybersecurity governance. Additionally, Trump’s recent executive action replaced Biden’s AI order, advocating for policies that strengthen “America’s global AI dominance.”
The Center for Democracy and Technology’s analysis highlighted diverse state approaches to AI, pointing to potential risks from governance oversights that could lead to unintended consequences.
---
Read More USA Works News