North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has signed an executive order to establish an AI leadership council aimed at guiding the state's AI strategy and ensuring responsible use across government operations.

The initiative includes creating an AI Leadership Council, an AI Accelerator within the Department of Information Technology, and AI Oversight Teams for each agency, with co-chairs Secretary Teena Piccione and Secretary Lee Lilley.

Lee Lilley highlighted North Carolina's unique opportunity to lead in AI-driven industry transformation, economic growth, and workforce preparation.

The state has already seen AI pilot programs, such as in the Treasurer’s Office, which increased efficiency by roughly 10%, demonstrating AI's potential benefits.

North Carolina has begun experimenting with AI, including the Treasury’s partnership with OpenAI, and has introduced multiple bills related to AI ethics, literacy, and regulation.

The AI plan focuses on advancing technology, implementing a strategic economic development plan, and investing in public education to prepare for AI's impact by 2030.

Stein acknowledged the risks and uncertainties of AI, emphasizing the importance of a guiding framework, and clarified that there are no current plans for employment consequences due to AI integration.

While recognizing potential job impacts, Stein emphasized that AI's primary goal is to improve government efficiency and better serve taxpayers, citing examples like reducing DMV wait times.

In addition to AI initiatives, Governor Stein declared September as Emergency Preparedness Month to promote disaster readiness among residents.

Legislator Rep. Jake Johnson plans to draft AI regulatory reform legislation for 2026, including rules against misuse such as deep fake political ads and penalties for data breaches.

A new AI accelerator within the state's IT department will serve as a hub for AI research, development, and deployment to address inefficiencies in government services.

The surge in AI demand is driven by major projects like Amazon’s $10 billion AI campus and FUJIFILM Diosynth’s facility, reflecting the growing industry presence in North Carolina.