WA Legislature to consider requiring union talks over government use of AI

Washington state lawmakers are gearing up to reconsider House Bill 1622, which would require public sector unions to negotiate the use of artificial intelligence technology that affects wages or performance evaluations. The bill passed the House with mostly Democratic support but stalled in the Senate amid opposition from business groups and city officials, who claimed it could delay workplace innovation. Rep. Lisa Parshley, the bill's lead sponsor, presented the proposal to the state's artificial intelligence task force, highlighting the need for advance bargaining rather than post-implementation discussions. Currently, a 2002 law prohibits negotiations over technology for classified employees, a restriction Parshley argues is outdated in light of AI's potential impacts on workers.

A recent Pew Research Center survey revealed that over half of workers are concerned about AI's future impact on jobs, with many fearing job losses. Maryland's partnership with AI company Anthropic exemplifies how states are exploring AI's benefits in social welfare programs. Parshley believes that codifying the proposed law would hold future administrations accountable and ensure necessary human oversight of AI systems. The discussions surrounding the bill reflect a growing recognition of the need to balance technological advancement with worker rights and job security.