On September 2, Governor Josh Stein signed Executive Order No. 24, establishing North Carolina’s new AI Leadership Council, AI Accelerator, and oversight framework for artificial intelligence. Among its founding members is Durham’s own Representative Zack Hawkins, who has spent nearly two years championing this effort in the General Assembly. The announcement marks one of the most expansive state-level AI initiatives in the nation—positioning North Carolina to lead on innovation, ethical governance, and workforce preparation.
A Legislative March Toward AI Strategy
Back in May 2024, Hawkins was the primary sponsor (alongside Rep. Saine and others) of House Bill 1036, which proposed the creation of a legislative Artificial Intelligence Task Force ($250,000 budgeted) to study AI trends, advise the General Assembly, and ensure public oversight through four subcommittees: Innovation; Standards & Ethics; Risks; and Individual Rights.
The bill advanced through its first reading before ultimately stalling in committee. Yet Hawkins’s persistence laid the groundwork for the governor’s executive order this September, rooted in the same vision of responsible AI leadership.
Executive Order No. 24: Building the AI Ecosystem
Governor Stein’s order, titled Advancing Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence That Benefits All North Carolinians, authorizes:
An AI Leadership Council co-chaired by familiar public figures—Teena Piccione (IT) and Lee Lilley (Commerce)—with Hawkins appointed as a founding member. An AI Accelerator housed within the Department of Information Technology, meant to serve as the state’s central engine for AI governance, innovation, and training. AI Oversight Teams in every state agency to ensure transparent, ethical AI usage and safeguard civil liberties. A statewide initiative on AI literacy and fraud prevention for the public.
This puts North Carolina in line with a growing number of states moving to harness AI’s potential while protecting residents, building on the state’s recent “Responsible Use of AI” framework from 2024.
What It Means for Durham
Local Leadership on a Global Trend – Hawkins’s appointment elevates Durham as a hub in shaping North Carolina’s AI future—from workforce readiness to consumer protection. Bridging Legislative Vision and Executive Action – The AI ecosystem Hawkins first sketched in the legislature now has structure and funding at the state level. Opportunities for Collaboration – Institutions in Durham—from universities to tech firms—could soon connect with the AI Accelerator and Council’s initiatives in training, innovation, and oversight. Community Accountability and Input – The order’s call for public engagement on AI literacy and policy opens a pathway for Durham residents and civic groups to influence AI deployment.
Quick facts
Governor’s Executive Order
EO24 signed Sept 2, 2025 to launch NC’s AI infrastructure
Legislative Roots
HB 1036 (2024), sponsored by Rep. Hawkins, first proposed formal AI Task Force
Key Structures
AI Leadership Council (Hawkins member), AI Accelerator, Oversight Teams
Council Co-Chairs
Teena Piccione (IT), Lee Lilley (Commerce)
Strategic Goals
Ethical AI, economic growth, workforce readiness, public trust, consumer protection
How We Cover It
At the Bull City Citizen, we believe good governance involves informed communities—and Durham should be part of crafting AI’s path forward. We’ll continue to track Council meetings, Accelerator grants, and how AI training and transparency land locally. If your business, nonprofit, or neighborhood wants to engage, contact us—we’ll tell your story.
