UPDATE — JULY 2025: Washington State’s AI Task Force, established under SB 5838, has released multiple reports emphasizing transparency, accountability, and trustworthy AI. The Task Force’s inaugural report, published in December 2024, introduced eight subcommittees focused on sector-specific AI impacts. The interim report is due December 1, 2025, with a final report expected by July 1, 2026. Legislative proposals on AI-generated content disclosures and child protection are currently under development.
ORIGINAL NEWS STORY:
Washington State Legislators Propose AI Task Force
Lawmakers in Washington are taking steps to regulate the growing use of artificial intelligence. In early 2024, nearly 20 state legislators introduced Senate Bill 5838 (SB 5838). The bill proposes creating a new task force to examine the risks and benefits of generative AI.
The goal is to develop recommendations for future laws. These would focus on protecting privacy, civil rights, safety, and intellectual property. The bill acknowledges AI’s potential but warns that unregulated use could lead to bias and harm. It also notes that, despite a 2023 executive order from President Joe Biden, no federal AI regulations currently exist.
If enacted, the task force, appointed by State Attorney General Bob Ferguson, will comprise diverse representatives from state agencies, tribes, advocacy groups, businesses, universities, and other significant stakeholders. Its responsibilities include conducting a comprehensive literature review on AI public policy issues, evaluating existing legal protections, suggesting guiding principles, identifying high-risk applications, and proposing regulatory frameworks. The examination will specifically focus on fostering innovation while recommending necessary limitations and oversight for both public and private deployment of generative AI. Racial equity, civil liberties, workforce implications, transparency, accountability, and public education related to AI will be integral considerations.
Should the bill receive approval, the task force is mandated to convene its inaugural meeting by the close of 2024, followed by biannual meetings thereafter. An interim report is expected by the conclusion of 2025, with the final report due by June 1, 2027.
Need Help?
2024 is already a busy year for the evolving landscape of AI regulations. Therefore, consider reaching out to BABL AI. Because their team of Audit Experts is ready to address inquiries, concerns and offer valuable insight.
