UPDATE – JUNE 2025: In late 2024, the New Jersey AI Task Force released its final report, offering over 30 recommendations for responsible AI use across state agencies, education, labor, and innovation. The report highlights transparency, public engagement, and AI literacy as key pillars of the state’s evolving AI governance strategy. BABL AI now supports public- and private-sector clients navigating state-level AI policies and preparing for compliance.

ORIGINAL STORY:

New Jersey Launches AI Task Force to Advance Responsible Innovation

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has joined a growing list of U.S. Governors, including J. Kevin Stitt, Josh Shapiro and Glenn Youngkin, in acknowledging the potential benefits of AI. On October 10, 2023, Governor Murphy signed Executive Order No. 346, a landmark decision that recognizes the transformative potential of AI and establishes a dedicated task force. The primary aim of this task force is to explore the responsible development and utilization of AI within the state of New Jersey.

Executive Order 346 Establishes the New Jersey AI Task Force

The six-page Executive Order lays out a coordinated strategy involving multiple arms of the state government. It establishes a multidisciplinary task force made up of representatives from state agencies, academia, and the private sector.

The task force is charged with evaluating:

• AI’s potential benefits and risks

• Data privacy and cybersecurity concerns

• Ethical and equitable deployment of AI systems

• Opportunities for economic growth and innovation

New Jersey AI Task Force Collaboration and Strategic Goals

In addition to the task force, the Executive Order directs specific state departments to pursue AI-forward initiatives:

• The Economic Development Authority will examine how AI can stimulate economic activity and job creation.

• The Office of the Secretary of Higher Education will explore AI research opportunities across state colleges and universities.

• The Office of Information Technology will develop policies to guide AI use in government operations.

• The Office of Innovation will create a training program to promote responsible AI usage across public service roles.

This holistic approach signals New Jersey’s intent to develop a thoughtful and inclusive AI policy framework.

New Jersey AI Task Force Leadership and Timeline

The task force will be led by key state officials, including:

• Chief Technology Officer

• Chief Innovation Officer

• Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

• Commissioners of Education and Labor

• Secretary of Higher Education

• Director of Homeland Security and Preparedness

• The Attorney General

• Additional members appointed by the Governor

The task force is expected to publish a public report within 12 months of the Executive Order’s signing, providing findings and policy recommendations to the New Jersey Legislature and broader public.

Need Help on What It Means for Your Business?

New Jersey’s coordinated approach to AI governance could shape future compliance obligations, especially for companies interacting with state agencies or operating in highly regulated sectors. Organizations are encouraged to review how emerging state-level AI policies may intersect with broader federal and international regulations.

Need help understanding how New Jersey’s AI strategy could affect your operations? BABL AI offers expert audits, policy alignment, and compliance support tailored to your sector.