E65: Bridging the Procurement Gap — How New Regulations Empower Small Businesses
In this episode of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha discuss a significant rulemaking process initiated by the Department of General Services (DGS) to change small business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) procurement processes. They examine the new statutory mandate requiring 25% of state spending to go to small businesses and 3% to DVBEs. Jennifer highlights the impact on technology procurements and the potential for leveling the playing field for small businesses. The conversation also delves into the increased contract limit from $250,000 to $3.5 million for small business procurements and the need for education and awareness within both government and vendor communities. The episode closes with a look at the opportunities and challenges this new regulation presents.00:00 Introduction to Govtech Today00:29 Regulatory Changes in Small Business and DVB Procurement02:08 Impact on Technology Procurement04:11 Small Business and DVB Off-Ramp Procurement06:49 Increasing the Procurement Limit09:33 Educating the Business Community15:24 Conclusion and Future Outlook
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15:51
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15:51
E64: Innovating Government Services with Data and Technology
In this episode of Gov Tech Today, host engages with Jeffrey Marino, Director of the California Office of Data and Innovation (ODI), to discuss his journey from data journalism to government service. They delve into government use of data during the COVID-19 crisis, the challenges of data analytics in state systems, and the mission of ODI to enhance service delivery through technology and human-centered design. They also explore the Engaged California program and Innovation Fellows initiative aimed at gathering state employee feedback and fostering transformational change from within. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:24 Jeffrey Marino's Background and Journey01:29 COVID-19 Data Challenges and Solutions03:08 Engaging the Public and Policy Impact04:57 Building Data Analytics Pipelines06:18 The Role and Mission of ODI07:41 Innovation in Government: Challenges and Strategies19:13 Engaged California and Innovation Fellows Program24:09 Addressing Employee Feedback and Trust31:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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31:47
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31:47
E63: Bridging the Tech and Legislative Gap — A Dive into AI Regulation
On this episode of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha delve into the evolving landscape of AI regulation. Analyzing California's legislative actions, they discuss major bills such as SB 53 (Wiener) and AB 316 (Krell) that impact AI transparency and liability. They provide insights into the federal and state regulatory approaches and predict future legislative trends, offering a nuanced perspective on the balance between innovation and regulation.00:00 Introduction and Hosts00:14 Overview of Legislative Process01:12 California's AI Legislation Landscape03:21 Specific AI Legislation: SB 53 Wiener06:34 Other Notable AI Bills10:11 Future of AI Legislation14:43 Impact on Technology Procurement17:01 Conclusion and Future Episodes
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17:25
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17:25
E62: A Deep Dive into California's Innovative Strategies with Amy Tong
On this episode of Gov Tech Today, host Jennifer Saha sits down with Amy Tong, Senior Counselor to the Governor of California, to discuss groundbreaking efforts in government efficiency and transformation. Tong shares insights about her role and the state's 'E3' initiative, which stands for Efficient, Effective, and Engaged government. With a focus on challenges ranging from budget constraints to the integration of cutting-edge technology, this conversation unveils how California aims to create a lasting legacy of innovation and efficiency in public service. Key themes include the role of middle management in driving change, the necessity of grounding technological solutions in everyday operational needs, and the importance of industry partnerships. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:24 Amy Tong's Role and Responsibilities01:01 Government Efficiency and Challenges07:01 Middle Management and Innovation09:56 Tech Solutions and Proof of Concept15:10 Philanthropy and State Budget16:40 California's Budget Challenges and Opportunities17:36 Creativity in Times of Financial Strain18:53 The Role of Industry Partners21:32 Personal Reflections and Future Plans25:20 Favorite and Least Favorite Jobs in Government29:36 Efficiency and Modernization in Government30:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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31:18
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31:18
E61: Navigating the Shift from Public to Private Sector in GovTech
On this episode of Gov Tech Today, host Jennifer Saha welcomes Mike Hussey, former state CIO of Utah, who shares his transition from 30 years in state government to a pivotal role in the private sector with Oracle. Mike discusses the intricacies of balancing public service exigencies with private sector dynamism, especially in the context of emerging AI technologies. Listen in as they delve into the unique challenges of AI regulation, the evolving roles of state CIOs, and the cooperative competition among states aiming for technological advancements. Key timestamps include insights into the working dynamics in government (10:12), the transformative impact of AI (25:30), and the nuanced differences in state vs. federal AI regulations (40:47). 00:00 Welcome to Gov Tech Today00:30 Meet Mike Hussey: From State CIO to Private Sector01:19 Navigating Government Transitions03:00 The Role of State CIOs and the Power of Community06:35 Challenges and Innovations in Government Technology09:59 Public vs. Private Sector: A Unique Perspective15:38 The Impact of AI in Government16:43 The Excitement of AI in Government Work17:32 Regulatory Challenges and Opportunities17:57 Efficiency and Compliance in State Governments18:46 Public Service Through Private Sector Work20:03 State-Level Innovations and Success Stories21:02 The Complexity of Large-Scale Implementations25:04 AI Regulation: State vs. Federal Perspectives30:19 The Rapid Evolution of AI Legislation32:06 Conclusion and Future Outlook