I had the opportunity to be a guest along with WaTech Chief Technology Officer Gretchen Peri on TVW’s “Inside Olympia” on Nov. 20, 2025. We enjoyed a wide-ranging conversation about artificial intelligence and digital privacy in state government. We discussed how Washington is approaching AI, the importance of thoughtfully designing new digital services as agencies adopt emerging technologies, the role of strong data governance and clear privacy principles, and how these elements guide state systems. Gretchen described how modern technology platforms can improve the way residents interact with government services when they are built with trust, accessibility and security in mind. I outlined how privacy protections and risk assessments influence the state’s use of AI and automated decision systems. You can watch the show on TVW.
Keep Washington Working Act webinar
In case you missed it, I presented with the Attorney General’s Office on the Keep Washington Working (KWW) Act on Nov. 12. We presented on the intent of the KWW, best practices for data collection, sharing and storage, and other important legal considerations. You can access the slide deck and recording or visit our website for access as well.
State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program
We are happy to announce that WaTech’s Office of Privacy and Data Protection (OPDP) is a recipient again for the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program. This means we will be able to offer IAPP Certification Training. Watch for my newsletter next month for more details about the application process. We are also happy to announce this year that we have added the Artificial Intelligence Governance Professional (AIGP) certification to the list of eligible trainings. I obtained this certification earlier this year and found it to be very valuable as we work to ensure responsible AI in the state of Washington.
AI policy
Regarding responsible AI at the state, we are nearly across the finish line in adopting the state’s first AI Policy. The policy has been through all of the internal state governance committees and been voted to move forward for formal adoption by the state’s Technology Services Board. To watch the full board meeting visit https://watech.wa.gov/technology-services-board-tsb for the agenda and link. The meeting is scheduled on Dec. 11th from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Thanks, and see you next month with more updates!
Katy Ruckle
State Chief Privacy Officer