Key Takeaways:
- North Dakota government offices are leveraging AI to enhance operations and improve services
- Public schools in North Dakota are exploring the use of AI, with a focus on safe and effective implementation
- AI is being used to support job seekers, including those with language barriers, at the N.D. Job Service
- The Secretary of State’s office is utilizing AI to streamline operations, while ensuring independence from elections and protecting against AI-driven misinformation
- The state is prioritizing public protection and responsible AI use to maximize benefits and minimize risks
Introduction to AI in North Dakota Government
The state of North Dakota is embracing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in various government offices, leading to improved services and operations. As AI becomes increasingly prevalent, the state is taking steps to ensure that its implementation is safe, effective, and transparent. According to State Superintendent Levi Bachmeier, "So we need to make sure that we’re focusing on protecting children and reducing risks. And the downsides of that will inevitably come with artificial intelligence, but at the same time recognizing, just like the calculator, that it’s ultimately a tool." This cautious approach reflects the state’s commitment to harnessing the potential of AI while minimizing its risks.
AI in Public Schools
Public schools in North Dakota are exploring the use of AI in several ways, with a focus on supporting safe and effective implementation. The state is working to develop updated guidance for AI use in schools, which will involve a group of educators, parents, and students. Bachmeier plans to form this group to discuss the implications of AI in education and ensure that its use aligns with the state’s values and priorities. By engaging stakeholders and considering multiple perspectives, the state aims to create a framework for AI use that benefits students and educators alike.
AI in Job Service
The N.D. Job Service is utilizing AI to support job seekers, including those with language barriers. The Instant Language Assistant, which has been in use for two years, supports multiple languages and has facilitated better communication during job intakes, interviews, and on-the-job training. According to Amy Arenz, Bismarck Workforce Center manager at Job Service North Dakota, "It makes it a lot easier to serve individuals, especially the new Americans are coming into the area." This AI-powered tool has led to quicker job placements and improved outcomes for job seekers, demonstrating the potential of AI to enhance public services.
AI in the Secretary of State’s Office
The Secretary of State’s office is using AI to streamline operations, but is taking care to ensure that it remains independent of elections. As N.D. Secretary of State Michael Howe noted, "Our team has taken classes on it and how to be more efficient. But as far as our functionality, we’re never going to run an election through AI. We’re not doing anything with filing business registration through AI." The office is also working to protect the public from potential AI-driven misinformation, requiring disclosure of AI-generated campaign content and maintaining vigilant public outreach on emerging risks. By prioritizing transparency and accountability, the Secretary of State’s office is demonstrating a commitment to responsible AI use.
Balancing Innovation and Public Protection
As AI becomes an everyday reality in government, work, and schools, the challenge is to ensure that innovation and public protection go hand in hand. The state of North Dakota is recognizing the potential of AI to drive opportunity and improvement, while also acknowledging the potential risks and downsides. By prioritizing safe and effective implementation, engaging stakeholders, and maintaining transparency, the state is working to maximize the benefits of AI while minimizing its risks. As AI continues to evolve and become more pervasive, the state’s approach will serve as a model for responsible AI use, demonstrating that innovation and public protection are not mutually exclusive, but rather complementary goals.
https://www.kfyrtv.com/2026/01/13/how-state-north-dakota-is-using-artificial-intelligence/