When the West Virginia House of Delegates went into session on Wednesday, January 10, one of the first orders of business was the unanimous approval of an organizational resolution to establish the Select Committee on Artificial Intelligence (AI). Delegate Jarred Cannon, R-Putnam, was appointed as chairman of the select committee, and Delegate Jordan Maynor, R-Raleigh, as vice chairman.

“I am honored to serve as the inaugural chairman for this committee,” Cannon said. “In the face of the rapid evolution of AI technology, it is critically important that West Virginia positions itself at the forefront to ensure it is integrated responsibly.

“This committee will dedicate itself to a thorough examination of potential legislative actions that align with the best interests of all West Virginians.”

Cannon is also vice chairman of the Committee on Technology and Infrastructure and a member of the Banking and Insurance, Economic Development and Tourism, Health and Human Resources, and Workforce Development committees.

The Committee on Workforce Development has a new vice chairman in Delegate Kathie Hess Crouse, R-Putnam, who will work alongside chairman Evan Worrell, R-Cabell. Crouse also serves on the Banking and Insurance, Energy and Manufacturing, Government Organization, and Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security committees.