Code for America Releases Second Annual Report on Government AI Landscape, Showcasing State Innovations and Trends

Code for America Delivers Insightful Government AI Landscape Assessment

On May 1, 2026, Code for America, a prominent nonprofit dedicated to enhancing public services through technology, released its second annual Government AI Landscape Assessment. This report evaluates the progress various states have made in their AI journeys, underscoring their strengths, focus areas, and opportunities for growth while spotlighting national trends.

The report is based on comprehensive research and serves as a follow-up to their 2025 assessment. It centers on how AI is being utilized to aid eligible individuals in finding, applying for, and receiving crucial benefits. Through an interactive visualization, it presents a clear picture of each state's position along a four-stage AI adoption framework:

1. Readiness - Establishing a foundation for responsible AI implementation, focusing on leadership and infrastructure.
2. Piloting - Setting up AI innovation labs and controlled environments for experimentation.
3. Implementation - Integrating AI into routine operations, such as case management and public-facing chat services.
4. Impact - Developing robust metrics to monitor and evaluate AI systems for long-term effectiveness.

The findings reveal that while numerous states are transitioning from piloting AI projects to implementing full-scale systems, many still grapple with operationalizing these tools effectively and assessing their impact thoroughly. Remarkably, states like Maryland, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, and Vermont have emerged as leaders in government AI initiatives. They excel due to committed executive leadership and strategic cross-agency collaboration, alongside controlled experimentation that paves the way for structured pilot programs. Notably, these regions are also beginning to construct systems for measuring the outcomes of their AI tools.

Amanda Renteria, CEO of Code for America, commented on the urgency and commitment states are adopting in response to AI's potential. "These initiatives reflect not merely a reaction to technology but a proactive engagement in shaping it for community-centered outcomes. When states prioritize human-focused approaches, they set the stage to redefine public service within the AI landscape."

A closer look at individual states reveals notable projects: Maryland has collaborated with Anthropic to deploy an AI-driven agent to support residents in navigating the benefits application process. New Jersey is enhancing their NJ AI Assistant, developing tools that broaden public outreach and increase document validation capabilities. North Carolina is utilizing generative AI within its Government Data Analytics Center to improve document summarization for government staff. Pennsylvania's innovative efforts include scaling an AI tool that scans documents for clarity to reduce the administrative workload on caseworkers, while Texas is leading the charge with a comprehensive AI governance framework that improves data quality across its agencies. Following suit, Utah has pioneered a regulated pilot for an AI chatbot aimed at streamlining prescription renewals, allowing doctors to devote more time to patient care. Lastly, Vermont has published a public inventory detailing the AI tools deployed across its state agencies.

To compile these insights, Code for America conducted extensive reviews of publicly available resources, including executive orders, state legislation, and various reports, ensuring a balanced and comprehensive assessment. Feedback from the AI Advisory Council and opportunities for state input prior to publication further enriched the report's findings.

For over 15 years, Code for America has collaborated with government entities nationwide, striving to enhance the accessibility and efficiency of public benefits and services through the strategic application of AI technology. In 2025, the organization proudly assisted 7 million individuals in accessing $22 billion in benefits related to safety nets, criminal justice, and tax systems across 27 states and Washington, D.C.

In essence, the recent AI Landscape Assessment from Code for America illuminates a transformative journey for state governments eager to leverage technology in elevating public service delivery. As these leaders chart their AI trajectories, they are collectively shaping a future defined by improved community support and technological innovation.

Learn more about Code for America's mission and ongoing projects at codeforamerica.org.