Cox’s ‘pro-human AI’ order directs state government to use ‘responsible’ artificial intelligence

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox on Tuesday signed an executive order meant to “promote responsible AI use within government” by using “pro-human” principles when evaluating artificial intelligence tools. 

The executive order sets a “structured, pro-human framework for artificial intelligence integration across state government,” the governor’s office said in a news release. 

It’s meant to advance Utah’s Pro-Human AI Initiative, an effort launched in December 2025, by directing state agencies to “maintain rigorous safeguards for human agency, data privacy and trust” while also using AI to “enhance public services and improve efficiency,” the governor’s office said. 

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Under the executive order, state government agencies are directed to require AI literacy training for employees while also requiring them to use AI tools to “streamline internal processes and radically improve citizen-facing applications.”

“The choice between innovation and safety in government is a false one,” Cox said in a prepared statement. “AI represents a generational opportunity to better serve Utahns, but technology must always remain accountable to the people.”