North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has signed an executive order establishing a statewide framework for artificial intelligence (AI), aiming to position the state as a leader in responsible AI use, innovation, and workforce development.

The order creates an AI Leadership Council, co-chaired by Secretary of Information Technology Teena Piccione and Secretary of Commerce Lee Lilley, along with an AI Accelerator housed within the North Carolina Department of Information Technology. Each state agency will also form AI Oversight Teams to guide adoption and ensure compliance.

“AI has the potential to transform how we work and live, carrying with it both extraordinary opportunities and real risks,” Stein said in announcing the order. “Our state will be stronger if we are equipped to take on these challenges responsibly.”

The AI Leadership Council, which includes lawmakers, business executives, academics, and local officials, will advise on statewide AI strategy and training. Its work will support innovation, strengthen AI-driven industries, and prepare the workforce for jobs created by new technologies.

Piccione said the initiatives will “implement swift and transformative solutions that will not only position North Carolina at the forefront of technological innovation but also uphold the latest standards of data privacy and security.”

The move comes as major companies expand AI operations in the state. Amazon is building a $10 billion AI innovation campus in Richmond County, while FUJIFILM Diosynth is operating North America’s largest biomanufacturing facility in Holly Springs. Officials note the growth of AI industries will increase demand on North Carolina’s energy grid, requiring proactive planning to balance innovation with infrastructure.

The executive order also mandates an AI Literacy and Fraud Prevention Training Program to help the public understand AI’s opportunities and risks.

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