UPDATE — SEPTEMBER 2025: Sonoma County’s Administrative Policy 9-6 on AI use, adopted in 2024, has remained in effect but has seen a few refinements rather than major rewrites. In spring 2025, the County’s Information Systems Department conducted its first annual policy review. It confirmed the core rules would stand — particularly the prohibition on entering personal or sensitive data into AI tools. The review added clarifications, such as expanding acceptable uses to include translation help and drafting public-facing communications, provided human oversight and disclosure remain in place.
To support consistent application, Sonoma County launched a mandatory AI training program in mid-2025 for all staff. Training emphasizes responsible disclosure, bias risks, and data protection. At the same time, the County began testing a secure in-house AI sandbox, giving departments like Planning, Public Works, and Health Services access to controlled AI tools without relying on commercial platforms like ChatGPT.
Sonoma’s approach is drawing attention across California. Neighboring counties, including Marin, Alameda, and Santa Clara, are referencing Policy 9-6 as a model, with some preparing their own rules built on its transparency and disclosure requirements.
ORIGINAL NEWS STORY:
Sonoma County Approves Responsible AI Policy, Setting Blueprint for Local Governments
Counties and municipalities around the United States may look at Sonoma County’s Board of Supervisors’ comprehensive new artificial intelligence (AI) policy. The policy, officially named Administrative Policy 9-6, was developed by the County’s Information Systems Department and aims to streamline AI adoption while ensuring that its use aligns with legal and ethical standards.
A Focus on Ethics, Transparency, and Data Protection
At its core, the policy aims to protect sensitive data, promote transparency, and prevent AI misuse in decision-making. It specifies the conditions under which county employees may use AI tools, including ChatGPT, and stresses that all AI-generated content must be disclosed. Supervisor David Rabbitt, chair of the Board of Supervisors, noted the importance of cautious innovation. “We are on the cusp of the artificial intelligence revolution,” Rabbitt said. “We understand the opportunities this technology presents for efficiency and cost savings. At the same time, we must proceed carefully and ethically.”
Rules for Responsible Use
The policy prohibits AI use in critical decision-making where bias or discrimination could occur. It allows AI to assist with routine work, but strictly forbids entering personal or sensitive information into any AI system. Employees must disclose AI use in all public-facing materials to maintain transparency. They are also required to fact-check AI-generated content to ensure accuracy and compliance with county standards. Oversight is provided by the County’s Information Security Officer and legal counsel to keep the policy aligned with privacy and data protection laws.
A Model for Other Governments
Sonoma County’s balanced approach demonstrates that governments can use AI to improve efficiency and enhance services while maintaining ethical safeguards. By pairing innovation with oversight, the County has set a national example for how public institutions can integrate AI responsibly.
Need Help?
You might be wondering how Sonoma County’s AI policy, or any other AI policy and legislation around the world, could impact you. Therefore, don’t hesitate to reach out to BABL AI. Their Audit Experts are ready to provide valuable assistance while answering your questions and concern
