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NASCIO VoicesAuthor: NASCIO
A podcast from the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO). Amy Glasscock and Alex Whitaker interview guests (state CIOs, NASCIO members, strategic partners and colleagues) to get their unique stories and perspectives on state information technology, leadership and lessons learned. Language: en-us Genres: Government, Technology Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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Privacy Persevering: State CPOs Gain Responsibility, Lack Funding
Episode 163
Wednesday, 8 April, 2026
In this episode of NASCIO Voices, Amy is joined by NASCIO guest host Kalea Young-Gibson to break down NASCIO's latest report on the state Chief Privacy Officer (CPO) role. The report — based on responses from all 28 currently active state CPOs — reveals a role that's growing fast but still fighting for the resources it needs.Amy and Kalea dig into the rapid expansion of CPOs across state government (from just 5 states in 2015 to 31 in 2026), the push toward formal privacy programs and frameworks, and how AI is reshaping — and sometimes overshadowing — the privacy function. Despite CPOs stepping into enterprise leadership roles, most still lack dedicated budgets, enforcement authority, and sufficient staffing.The conversation also covers what CPOs say they need most: funding, CIO support, and a stronger seat at the table. Amy's key takeaway? CPOs know exactly what to do — they just need the authority and investment to do it.Key topics covered:Growth of the state CPO rolePrivacy program maturity and the NIST frameworkCPO involvement in AI policy and riskTop challenges: funding, authority, and awarenessWhat CPOs need to succeed in 2026 and beyondAnd what we're reading!
