The formula $A=18\mathrm{.}5e^{0\mathrm{.}1706t}$ models the population of a US state, A$,$ in millions, t years after $2000.$

a$.$ What was the population of the state in $2000?$

b$.$ When will the population of the state reach $26\mathrm{.}6$ million?

a$.$ In $2000,$ the population of the state was $$ million.

b$.$ The population of the slate will reach $26\mathrm{.}6$ million in the year $$

$($Round down to the nearest year.$)$