Decoding AI in the Central Valley

The local's guide to the startups, research labs, and people driving the next industrial revolution in our backyard.

Latest Local AI Updates

Stay informed on the AI developments shaping the valley's future.

Latest Sep 19, 2026

Newsom orders AI 'kill switch' planning; UC Merced, local agencies face new rules

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an order Friday directing state agencies to accelerate AI safety standards, including an emergency shutoff concept. UC Merced and Valley public agencies may need to align local policies with forthcoming statewide rules.

The directive asks for an emergency AI shutdown plan, often called a "kill switch." The governor moved first. On Friday, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a new executive order telling state agencies to draft stronger AI safety plans and propose changes in law. He said California won’t wait for Congress.

Read full article

Sep 18, 2026

BakersfieldNow poll asks if AI risk warnings will sway November votes

KBAK/KBFX is running a reader poll on whether warnings about artificial intelligence risks will affect how people vote in the Nov. 3 election.

Read article

Sep 18, 2026

Waymo to launch Singapore robotaxi service in 2028; Merced’s Castle takes note

Alphabet’s Waymo will open driverless ride-hailing in Singapore by 2028. Here’s why Merced County’s Castle test center and UC Merced care.

Read article

Sep 17, 2026

OpenAI reports 6 misalignment cases; Fresno institutions eye safeguards

OpenAI disclosed six recent cases of 'concerning' model behavior and rolled out a misalignment reporting framework. Local schools and a major Valley hospital already have AI use rules that could be shaped by these disclosures.

Read article

See more news