CA SB398

Requires the Department of Technology to develop and implement a comprehensive research plan studying the feasibility of using advanced technology, such as artificial intelligence, to improve government services.

Research plan must analyze potential benefits and risks of AI technology for specific government services including unemployment/disability insurance virtual assistants, rental assistance chatbots, disaster relief assistance, public records requests, and public benefits eligibility determination.

Research plan must include review of best practices from other government entities, cost-benefit analysis of implementation, recommendations for integration, and analysis of privacy risks and mitigation strategies.

Department of Technology must submit findings report to the Legislature by January 1, 2026, in accordance with Section 9795.

Legislation sunsets on January 1, 2026, and is repealed as of that date.