Technology

SB 1037 establishes new security requirements for voting equipment used in Arizona elections. It prohibits voting machines from having internet connectivity or remote access capabilities, mandates configuration to U.S. Department of Homeland Security cybersecurity standards, requires user tracking with unique credentials, and demands logging of all ballot changes while retaining election data for 22 months. The bill directly affects counties, cities, and voting machine vendors that operate or supply electronic voting systems for federal, state, or local elections. These provisions apply to all certified voting equipment used in Arizona’s election processes.

HB 2409 establishes a voluntary statewide summer education program for Arizona residents through the Department of Education. It creates two core curricula: one teaching digital safety (including spotting AI-generated misinformation, understanding algorithmic bias, and protecting personal data), and another providing practical AI skills for small business owners (covering marketing tools, operational automation, and ethical use). The program, offered at public facilities, allows participating schools or colleges to award academic credit for completion. It directly affects Arizona residents and small business owners by providing accessible, hands-on AI education without mandating school curriculum changes.