Pennsylvania lawmakers and policy experts are urging the creation of a Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer and new regulatory safeguards as artificial intelligence rapidly transforms government, industry, and daily life across the Commonwealth, according to a comprehensive January 2026 report commissioned by the General Assembly.
The report, produced by the Joint State Government Commission and an advisory committee of researchers, government officials, labor representatives, and civil liberties experts, outlines sweeping recommendations aimed at balancing economic growth with privacy protections, workforce stability, and public trust.
Artificial intelligence is already embedded in sectors ranging from healthcare and manufacturing to law enforcement and education. The report notes that AI has enabled advances such as precision medicine, voice recognition, and automated mapping tools. However, it also warns of risks, including cybersecurity vulnerabilities, labor disruption, and threats to civil rights and privacy.
To address these challenges, the advisory committee recommends establishing a Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer within Pennsylvania’s Office of Administration. This position would coordinate AI governance, develop procurement and ethical standards, and help state and local agencies implement responsible AI policies.
The report also calls for algorithmic impact assessments before deploying AI systems, annual audits to identify potential bias or social harms, and expanded transparency requirements. Developers and organizations using AI would be expected to disclose how systems are trained and used, while ensuring personal data collection remains limited and clearly communicated to users.
Workforce disruption remains a central concern. The committee recommends advance notice requirements when employers deploy AI systems that affect jobs and calls for expanded training programs to help displaced workers transition into AI-related careers.
Infrastructure demands also feature prominently in the report. Data centers supporting AI systems require massive electricity and water resources, raising environmental and public health concerns. The committee recommends requiring operators to disclose resource usage and ensuring local governments maintain authority over zoning and environmental oversight.
The advisory committee emphasized that AI’s benefits can only be realized with clear governance and public awareness. It urged lawmakers to enact flexible, regularly reviewed legislation capable of adapting to rapid technological change.
Ultimately, the report frames artificial intelligence as both a transformative opportunity and a governance challenge. It concludes that proactive oversight, transparency, and workforce investment will be essential to ensuring AI strengthens Pennsylvania’s economy while protecting residents’ rights and well-being.
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