In a move to position the state of Washington as a leader in the ethical and innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI), Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced the formation of a new AI Task Force. The move comes after lawmakers pushed for the creation of a task force earlier this year. This task force, established through bipartisan legislation, aims to address the growing impact of AI on the economy and daily life. The task force will bring together technology experts, industry representatives, labor organizations, civil liberty groups, and other stakeholders to explore AI’s benefits and challenges, ultimately providing policy recommendations by 2026.
“The impact of Artificial Intelligence in our economy and daily lives is an urgent issue of our time,” said Attorney General Ferguson. “Washington will lead on innovative and ethical AI, as we have in so many areas. I appreciate the task force members for committing their time and expertise, exemplifying why Washington is a technology leader in this country.”
The task force was created in collaboration with Senator Joe Nguyen (D-White Center) and Representative Travis Couture (R-Allyn), who sponsored the companion bills in the Senate and House, respectively. The legislation received strong bipartisan support, highlighting the widespread recognition of AI’s transformative potential and the need for responsible governance.
The task force comprises a diverse group of experts, including legislators, policy advisors, technology leaders, and representatives from various sectors. Notable members include Senator Joe Nguyen, Senator Matt Boehnke (R-Kennewick), Representative Clyde Shavers (D-Clinton), and Sheri Sawyer, Deputy Director of Policy & Outreach in the Governor’s Office. Industry representatives like Ryan Harkins from Microsoft and Leah Koshiyama from Salesforce will provide insights into the technological and ethical implications of AI. Civil liberties and labor perspectives will be represented by Dr. Tee Sannon from the ACLU-Washington and Cherika Carter from the Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO.
The task force will focus on several key areas through subcommittees dedicated to education and workforce development, public safety and ethics, healthcare and accessibility, labor, government efficiency, state security and cybersecurity, consumer protection and privacy, and industry innovation. Additional subcommittees may be formed as needed, along with Tribal and Business advisory groups to address specific issues related to AI deployment in various sectors.
One of the task force’s primary mandates is to examine high-risk AI applications that could impact safety or fundamental rights and ensure proper human oversight and accountability. The task force will also address systemic racial disparities perpetuated by AI systems, protect workers from potential harm and bias, and support opportunities for innovation. Enhancing transparency and public education about AI, data privacy, and security will also be central to the task force’s efforts.
Over the next two years, the task force will meet multiple times annually, with its first meeting scheduled for this summer. The task force’s final report, including findings, guiding principles, and policy recommendations, is due to the governor and Legislature by July 1, 2026.
This initiative places Washington among at least 25 states that have introduced legislation related to AI. Other states like Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and others have established AI task forces or commissions, and several governors have created AI task forces by executive order. Attorney General Ferguson’s proactive approach to AI governance reflects his office’s broader mission to serve the people of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission, enforces consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental laws, and prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and sexually violent predator cases across Washington’s counties.
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