Fri Dec 05 05:40:00 UTC 2025: Summary:
Utah Governor Spencer Cox unveiled a “pro-human AI” initiative aimed at shaping the development and use of artificial intelligence in the state. Speaking at the Utah AI Summit, Cox emphasized the need to apply Utah values to the technology while advocating for government intervention to protect data privacy and children. The initiative will focus on workforce development, industry, state government, academia, public policy, and learning, including investments in curriculum and a “pro-human AI academic consortium.” Cox also criticized federal efforts to preempt state AI regulations, particularly regarding the protection of children from harmful AI applications. The state plans to consider regulations on AI chatbots, deepfakes, and AI in healthcare during the upcoming legislative session.
News Article:
Utah Governor Launches “Pro-Human AI” Initiative, Pushes Back Against Federal Intervention
Salt Lake City, UT – Utah Governor Spencer Cox announced a sweeping “pro-human AI” initiative Tuesday, positioning the state as a leader in shaping the responsible development and use of artificial intelligence. Speaking at the Utah AI Summit, Cox declared that “We have to apply Utah values to this new technology,” emphasizing the need to balance innovation with ethical considerations.
The initiative will span six key areas: workforce, industry, state government, academia, public policy, and learning. A key component is the creation of a “pro-human AI academic consortium” designed to foster breakthroughs in human-centered innovation. The state will also invest $10 million in curriculum development to prepare Utah’s workforce for the AI-driven economy, with a focus on the energy and “deep tech” sectors.
Cox stressed that government should not dictate AI development, but has a responsibility to protect data privacy and children. He criticized efforts in Congress to ban state AI regulations, particularly those aimed at safeguarding children from harmful AI applications, such as sexualized chatbots. “Congress should not be stopping us from being able to do that,” Cox stated, vowing to fight for the state’s ability to regulate AI in these areas.
During the upcoming legislative session, lawmakers will consider regulations targeting AI chatbots, deepfakes, and the use of AI in healthcare. This builds on previous efforts by Cox to implement guardrails for social media companies, aimed at minimizing harm to children, though some of these efforts have faced legal challenges.
The announcement comes as Utah seeks to position itself at the forefront of the AI revolution while prioritizing ethical considerations and the well-being of its citizens.
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