Technology that works for people

With tools like Generative AI, California is cutting through bureaucracy, updating legacy systems, and solving problems faster than ever before — whether it's streamlining permitting or responding to climate threats.
Hands typing on a keyboard, writing a generative AI prompt on a computer screen

Statewide access to GenAI

State departments can now get Claude, Anthropic’s AI tool for 50% off. It’s thanks to a statewide contract from the Department of Technology. This lets state staff responsibly use AI to:

  • Summarize information
  • Draft materials
  • Answer routine questions faster

They can use the time savings to do high value work for Californians that only humans can do. AI helps the state deliver services more efficiently while saving taxpayers money. Strong safeguards will guide how the state uses these tools, making sure we:

  • Protect sensitive information
  • Keep people remain accountable for decisions that impact Californians
A woman working on a laptop in a flower shop

Making taxes easier for small businesses

Taxes can be complex, but California has streamlined the process for small businesses. The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) released 2 new tools:

  • Quick File lets businesses file their annual sales tax returns in less than 2 minutes. It takes just 5 questions for businesses to find out if they’re eligible to use Quick File.
  • The Return Filing Tool guides businesses through each step of filing. Its straight-forward questions help businesses file accurately.

This is one way CDTFA is helping small businesses spend more time doing business and less time filing taxes.
A woman waving herself with a hand fan while adjusting an air conditioner

Making extreme heat info accessible to all

CalHeatScore helps Californians prepare for and stay safe in extreme heat. It’s now available through a new API. This makes its data easily available for others to use in things like:

  • Apps
  • Community alerts
  • Emergency response planning
  • Newscasts

Anyone from app developers to weather services to emergency responders can use CalHeatScore data. It’s already being used to help Californians:

  • During the World Cup the California Department of Public Health used the API to keep attendees, workers, and communities safe.
  • The California Office of Emergency Services now has live CalHeatScore data in its statewide dashboard.
A person handing over an ID showing secure barcodes on the back

Fighting identity fraud and reducing wait times

California is rolling out new digital tools at the DMV to strengthen identity verification and streamline the customer experience. The upgrade includes secure digital signature barcodes on IDs to help prevent fraud, along with QR code check-in technology that allows customers to join lines more efficiently and reduce wait times. These innovations reflect the state’s broader effort to modernize services through technology that is fastest, safer, and more user friendly.
A Los Angeles resident holding a smartphone showing a planned rebuilt home

AI-powered permitting reform

AI tools to speed up fire recovery and rebuilding

After the devastating Los Angeles fires, Governor Newsom announced the launch of a new AI-powered permitting tool — in partnership with local agencies and philanthropic partners — to help communities rebuild faster.

Local governments are integrating the tool into existing systems to cut red tape and make permitting faster and easier to navigate, reducing approval times from months to weeks.
Governor Newsom and CalFIRE officers looking at a map

AI in firefighting – speed that saves lives

Smarter wildfire response through AI

In 2024, AI-enabled camera spotters detected nearly a quarter of California’s wildfires — and 38% of those before a human could. That early warning is saving lives.

In partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense, CAL FIRE assessed over 4,000 fire starts in real-time with satellite technology. This helped crews respond faster than ever before.