Utah Gov. Spencer J. Cox signed Executive Order 2026-08 on October 7, 2026, advancing the state’s Pro-Human AI Initiative through safeguards for privacy and human involvement and an AI literacy strategy for state employees. The initiative was established in December 2025, and the order applies to executive-branch agencies, including the State Tax Commission, National Guard, and Board of Pardons and Parole.

The order describes its goals as “human-guided” AI that protects dignity and preserves human agency and authority, and “human-enhancing” systems that give workers better tools for problem solving and strengthening communities. It directs the Department of Government Operations (DGO) to lead AI-driven process improvements for government efficiency and decision-making, establish technical safeguards and guidance against cybersecurity threats and rogue AI agents, and implement the SEDI Framework for digital credentials where applicable.

The Division of Technology Services (DTS) and Human Resource Management must develop and implement AI literacy training for affected employees, with specialized training for agency AI leads. DTS must coordinate uniform AI implementation standards for state government and evaluate AI solutions for detecting and responding to cybersecurity threats. Agencies must assess where AI can optimize government business, share information, and maintain public transparency about AI use. DGO must submit annual progress reports to Cox, with the first due July 1, 2027. The order took effect with Cox’s signature and remains in force until modified, amended, rescinded, or superseded. Cox said AI is an opportunity to better serve Utahns, while technology must remain accountable to the public.

Utah Gov. Spencer J. Cox signed Executive Order 2026-08 on October 7, 2026, advancing the state’s Pro-Human AI Initiative through safeguards for privacy and human involvement and an AI literacy strategy for state employees. The initiative was established in December 2025, and the order applies to executive-branch agencies, including the State Tax Commission, National Guard, and Board of Pardons and Parole.

The order describes its goals as “human-guided” AI that protects dignity and preserves human agency and authority, and “human-enhancing” systems that give workers better tools for problem solving and strengthening communities. It directs the Department of Government Operations (DGO) to lead AI-driven process improvements for government efficiency and decision-making, establish technical safeguards and guidance against cybersecurity threats and rogue AI agents, and implement the SEDI Framework for digital credentials where applicable.

The Division of Technology Services (DTS) and Human Resource Management must develop and implement AI literacy training for affected employees, with specialized training for agency AI leads. DTS must coordinate uniform AI implementation standards for state government and evaluate AI solutions for detecting and responding to cybersecurity threats. Agencies must assess where AI can optimize government business, share information, and maintain public transparency about AI use. DGO must submit annual progress reports to Cox, with the first due July 1, 2027. The order took effect with Cox’s signature and remains in force until modified, amended, rescinded, or superseded. Cox said AI is an opportunity to better serve Utahns, while technology must remain accountable to the public.