Key Takeaways:
- States are regulating how educators can use AI
- AI literacy is being added to curriculum requirements
- Training and data privacy are central policy themes
- More legislation is expected in 2027
State legislation on artificial intelligence (AI) in education is emerging as a major policy focus in the 2026 legislative session, as states work to define how AI can be used in K–12 classrooms. Across the United States, lawmakers are exploring policies that address educator use of AI tools, student instruction on AI literacy, and safeguards to protect data privacy and academic integrity. As schools increasingly adopt AI-powered technologies, these efforts aim to balance innovation with accountability.
Where the 2026 Session Stands
As of April 2026, the legislative session is heading into its final stretch, with 22 states already adjourned and many more set to wrap up in the coming weeks. As governors begin signing bills into law, one issue gaining momentum in state education policy is artificial intelligence in the classroom. With AI continuing to expand rapidly, legislatures are exploring ways to guide its use, often focusing on supporting educators, modernizing curriculum, and ensuring student protections in a policy space that is still taking shape.
How States Are Regulating AI Use
States are developing their own restrictions on how educators may utilize AI tools. Recent legislation focuses on safe practices, often mandating specialized training for teachers. These programs aim to clarify the distinction between acceptable assistance, such as administrative task automation, and restricted uses, particularly those that might compromise student data privacy or instructional integrity. Additionally, legislation requires all AI-related software or technology procured by school districts to comply with privacy laws, and education vendors must disclose if their products use AI.
AI Literacy in Curriculum Requirements
Additionally, states are beginning to integrate AI literacy directly into graduation and curriculum standards. This ranges from updating digital literacy standards to require instruction on the ethical and responsible use of AI and the internet to expanding existing computer science credits to formally include AI instruction. States are also requiring local education agencies to include in their internet safety instruction for students, AI instruction, to mitigate harmful use.
State Spotlight: Utah and Maryland
Utah legislators introduced HB 218, which creates a framework for a required digital skills course for students in grades 7 and 8. It includes a broad range of digital skills concepts, including artificial intelligence literacy, digital privacy and cybersecurity, and screen time and mental health. This bill was signed by Governor Spencer Cox (R) on March 18 and takes effect on May 6, 2026. At the same time, the Maryland legislature passed SB 720 on April 13, a bill outlining rules for educators using AI. It also requires training on the use of AI for educators, parents, and students, promoting both ethical AI use and AI literacy. Currently, this bill is eligible to be signed by Governor Wes Moore (D). Once approved, the bill will take effect on June 1, 2026.
What Comes Next
As the AI landscape and debate evolves, emerging policies will continue to focus not only on the utilization of AI but also on implementing safeguards and instructions on how to use it safely and ethically. Expect this momentum to continue into the 2027 legislative session.
Education policy is no longer defined by a single issue or jurisdiction; it’s a multifaceted arena that spans academic standards, workforce alignment, technology access, and the governance of public institutions. Stateside’s Education Practice combines deep policy expertise with strategic engagement capabilities to help you navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead.
If you’d like to learn more about our Education Practice and how it can support your organization’s goals, contact us to start the conversation.