Technology (Emerging Technology)

AB 245 modifies the state's sales and use tax exemption for businesses operating qualified data centers. It defines a "qualified data center" as buildings (or connected buildings) owned, leased, or operated by a single business entity, designed to house server computers for processing, storing, or managing data. The bill adds provisions allowing data centers to offer rental space, utilities, and infrastructure services to tenants, while explicitly excluding cryptocurrency-related facilities from the tax exemption. This directly affects data center operators and their tenants by clarifying eligibility for tax benefits and expanding allowable services.

AB 364 establishes a three-year pilot program to test virtual reality (VR) learning technology in three public school districts (one rural, one suburban, and one urban). The program requires a VR platform aligned with state math and science standards for grades 6-12, proven through third-party research to improve Algebra 1 outcomes and use 3D models to teach abstract concepts. The state education department will select districts via competitive bidding, fund at least 16,000 students to use the technology, and provide 3,200 VR headsets, along with teacher training and monthly progress reports to legislators. The pilot aims to evaluate if this VR approach enhances student engagement and learning in STEM fields.

SB 325 establishes a three-year pilot program to test virtual reality (VR) technology in public school math and science education for grades 6-12. The bill requires the Department of Public Instruction to select one rural, one suburban, and one urban school district (based on student enrollment thresholds) to participate, with the VR program needing to meet specific criteria like alignment with state academic standards and proven effectiveness in improving Algebra 1 outcomes via third-party research. The program must serve at least 16,000 students across participating districts and provide 3,200 VR headsets, while also offering teacher training on using the technology for classroom instruction. The Department must report monthly to legislative education committees on the program’s progress. This pilot directly affects participating school districts, their middle and high school math teachers, and students in grades 6-12.