Author Archives: Tessa Zavala

What is happening? In 2018, West Virginia ran a pilot program testing blockchain to secure voting. Alaska in 2021 proposed legislation, SB 39 (2021 | AK) to build its voting system around blockchain which is considered more tamper proof. Why is this important? The security of blockchain could also be useful for state issued IDs […]

What is happening? Miami Coin has netted the city $5.25 million in revenue but investors not so much as the crypto’s value has fallen. Why is this important? The city is using the revenue to fund subsidies for low-income residents.  How will this be important? NYCCoin isn’t faring better, having fallen from close to half […]

What is happening? Crypto Miner, Marathon Holdings is  is cutting the cord with Hardin Generating Station in Montana , because it must be carbon neutral by 2023. Why is this important? “The Congressional Research Service put the amount of electricity going to crypto mining at 7,670 megawatts in 2019, the equivalent of more than five […]

What is happening? Cyber security insurance rates are rising. Cities re reporting that they are paying twice the cost for half the coverage. Why is this important? According to a survey 69% of cities have more expensive policies than last year. For the pooled Maryland Local Government Insurance Trust, premiums rose 300% How will this […]

What is happening? Houston, Austin, Irving, Rowlett and Beaumont have asked the AG to allow them to seek franchise fees from internet streamers. rlington, Grand Prairie, Allen, Amarillo, Sugar Land, Mesquite, Dallas, Plano, Waco, Abilene, Carrollton, Frisco and Garland are all currently pursuing streaming tax via the existing franchise fees. Why is this important? Cable […]

What is happening? South Dakota Governor is directing $1.25 million for state universities to collaborate to form an agriculture cybersecurity partnership. Why is this important? The predominant agriculture cybersecurity threat is far equipment which are connected to the internet, and become part of the internet of things. How will this be important? Not only does […]

What is happening? A survey by HelpSystems asked how cybersecurity changed after COVID. Why is this important? 53% of respondents said cyber threats were worse after COVID How will this be important? These concerns are ratcheting up again with Russia’s invasion into the Ukraine. BankInfoSecurity | How Has COVID-19 Changed CISO Approach to Data Security?

What is happening? Mobile Alabama adopted ShotSpotter, an auditory gunshot detection technology in an effort to reduce gun violence. Why is this important? Mobile is using American Rescue Plan Act funds to pay for the contract that uses audio detection technology to pinpoint where gunshots occur. How will this be important? City Council added protections […]

What is happening? Massachusetts Facial Recognition Commission released its recommendations this week and placed the responsibility to use facial recognition software with the State Police. Why is this important? Other limits recommended include no algorithms concerning detectable emotions & requiring probable cause that the person committed a felony. How will this be important? Massachusetts got […]

What is happening? 8 months after the state Legislature approved a ban on facial recognition software by law enforcement agencies, the Virginia Legislature approved use of facial recognition software by law enforcement. SB 741 (2022 | VA ) Why is this important? The bill authorizes certain uses like identifying witnesses, investigating sexual trafficking crimes, unidentified […]