Washington, D.C., has become the first major U.S. city to mandate responsible artificial intelligence training for its entire government workforce, marking a significant step in institutionalizing AI governance at the municipal level.
Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the new requirement on February 12, stating that all D.C. Government employees and contractors must complete mandatory Responsible AI training developed in partnership with InnovateUS. The self-paced program is designed to help public sector workers understand how to safely and effectively use generative AI tools while maintaining accountability and public trust.
“From day one, my Administration has prioritized putting AI to work for D.C. residents in ways that are safe, equitable, and accountable,” Bowser said in a statement. She emphasized that the training ensures employees understand both the capabilities and limitations of AI, reinforcing human oversight and responsibility.
The training initiative builds on Mayor’s Order 2024-028, signed in February 2024, which established the nation’s first comprehensive responsible AI framework for city government. The framework outlines six core principles guiding AI use across District agencies: clear benefit to residents, safety and equity, accountability, transparency, sustainability, and privacy and cybersecurity.
Stephen N. Miller, the District’s Chief Technology Officer, said the training helps translate those principles into practical guidance for daily operations. He noted that AI is increasingly integrated into government workflows, making it essential for public servants to understand proper governance and risk management practices.
The District’s approach emphasizes a “humans in the loop” model, ensuring employees remain accountable for decisions supported by AI tools. Approved technologies, such as Microsoft Copilot Chat within the government’s Microsoft 365 environment, have been configured to protect sensitive government data and prevent its use in training external AI models.
Implementation of the training is overseen by the D.C. AI Taskforce and informed by community engagement through advisory groups. Employees and contractors are required to complete the training within 90 days of notification.
City officials say the initiative positions Washington, D.C., as a leader in responsible public sector AI adoption, ensuring workforce readiness while protecting residents’ privacy, security, and trust.
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