Utah Governor Announces Pro-Human AI Initiative at Statewide Tech Summit
Utah Governor Spencer Cox unveiled a new artificial intelligence initiative during the state’s AI Summit, aiming to prepare Utah’s workforce and society for an AI-driven future. The plan centers on a “pro-human AI” approach that prioritizes human values and safeguards while embracing technological progress.
The initiative includes a $10 million investment to develop AI-focused curricula ensuring workers have the necessary skills in emerging fields such as energy and deep tech. Cox emphasized that the goal is “to ensure every Utah student and worker can adapt, up-skill and succeed as AI transforms the workplace.” This education push is part of a broader strategy that covers six domains: workforce, industry, state government, academia, public policy, and learning.
Recognizing growing concerns over AI’s social impacts, the initiative also features expanded AI applications within state government and forthcoming legislative efforts. These include potential regulations to limit harms from AI chatbots, increase transparency of AI-generated deepfakes, and carefully govern AI use in healthcare settings. Notably, Cox earlier signed legislation banning mental health chatbots from selling user data or targeting users with advertisements.
In his remarks, Cox stressed the importance of applying “Utah values” to AI’s development and use. He stated, “We have to decide” how society shapes and controls AI, cautioning against broad government regulation of technology companies but reinforcing the need for protective measures, especially around children’s safety and data privacy.
The governor also referenced national dynamics, criticizing federal lawmakers’ reluctance to enact AI regulations and opposing proposed federal bans on state-level AI rules. Cox affirmed Utah’s commitment to state-led action in the absence of effective congressional legislation.
Among upcoming plans is the launch of a “pro-human AI academic consortium” to foster innovative projects that promote human-centered AI breakthroughs. This effort seeks to advance both technological innovation and social well-being in tandem.
By investing in education, regulatory frameworks, and public-private collaboration, Utah aims to lead proactive AI governance that balances innovation with ethical responsibility. The initiative signals a growing trend among states to address AI’s rapid evolution amid stalled federal policymaking, positioning Utah as a key player in shaping the AI landscape.
Read more at: www.sltrib.com-
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