AI systems are entering public safety faster than national standards can keep up. Federal executive orders, NIST frameworks, and draft legislation are all in motion—but none of them change the daily realities of procurement, deployment, and oversight.

Agencies that wait for a top-down mandate will find themselves behind the curve—and under the spotlight.

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Why Local AI Policy Matters

1. You’re already deploying

If your agency uses software that classifies, flags, or recommends actions—it likely qualifies as AI under most state or federal definitions. That means you’re already operating in the space policy is meant to govern.

2. You’re accountable to local oversight

City councils, media outlets, and civilian boards aren’t waiting for federal law. They want answers now. Local policies give your agency the structure and transparency it needs to respond credibly.

3. You have control

Waiting for outside mandates means surrendering your ability to lead. Local policy allows your agency to define risk, set expectations, and demonstrate that you’re proactively managing emerging technology.

Where to Start

• Adopt a written AI policy tied to operational SOPs
• Classify systems by risk and assign oversight roles
• Establish public disclosure practices
• Require vendors to meet transparency and audit standards
• Participate in certification or third-party review