Washington State Attorney General Launches Task Force on Artificial Intelligence

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.

Membership and Representation

The task force brings together legislators, policy experts, technology leaders, and community voices. Members include:

• Senator Joe Nguyen

• Senator Matt Boehnke (R-Kennewick)

• Representative Clyde Shavers (D-Clinton)

• Sheri Sawyer, Deputy Director of Policy & Outreach, Governor’s Office

Industry voices such as Ryan Harkins from Microsoft and Leah Koshiyama from Salesforce will advise on technology and ethics. Civil liberties and labor will be represented by Dr. Tee Sannon of the ACLU-Washington and Cherika Carter of the Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO.

Focus Areas

The task force will operate through subcommittees on:

• Education and workforce development

• Public safety and ethics

• Healthcare and accessibility

• Labor and workplace rights

• Government efficiency

• State security and cybersecurity

• Consumer protection and privacy

• Industry innovation

Tribal and Business advisory groups may be added to address sector-specific issues.

Goals and Timeline

A central mandate is to examine high-risk AI applications that affect safety and rights. The task force will push for human oversight, accountability, and fairness. It will also address racial disparities linked to AI, safeguard workers, promote innovation, and improve transparency in AI use. Members will meet several times a year, beginning this summer. The final report, with findings and policy proposals, 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.

Need Help?

If you’re wondering how Washington’ task force, or any other state’s AI task force or global bill could impact you, don’t hesitate to reach out to BABL AI. Their Audit Experts are ready to provide valuable assistance while answering your questions and concerns.