Washington – The Computer & Communications Industry Association will testify today against Washington state Senate Bill 6284, cautioning that the legislation would impose overly broad and impractical requirements on artificial intelligence systems. The association is concerned about the legal uncertainty and increasing costs for businesses operating in the state that would be created if the bill becomes law.
SB 6284 would establish expansive compliance obligations for AI developers and deployers, including impact assessments, notice requirements, and a private right of action. CCIA warns that the bill’s vague and subjective standards risk sweeping in routine, low-risk uses of AI that support everyday business operations.
The association is particularly concerned that the bill’s assessment and documentation requirements are incompatible with modern software development practices, where AI-enabled products are updated frequently. These mandates would disproportionately burden startups and small businesses, likely discouraging innovation and limiting competition in Washington state’s technology sector.
CCIA also cautions that the bill’s private right of action could invite excessive litigation. This could prompt companies to reduce or withdraw AI-enabled services in the state to manage legal risk.
The association supports responsible and balanced AI policy, and will ask to work with lawmakers on targeted approaches that protect consumers while providing clear, workable standards that allow innovation to continue.
The following statement can be attributed to Aodhan Downey, West Region State Policy Manager for CCIA, who will testify against the bill:
“Washington’s state lawmakers are right to want thoughtful guardrails for artificial intelligence. Unfortunately, SB 6284 takes an overly broad approach that would create uncertainty for businesses and slow innovation. The bill’s vague definitions and burdensome requirements risk capturing low-risk, everyday uses of AI and placing disproportionate strain on small businesses. Effective AI policy should be grounded in technical realities and tailored to actual risks.”
