Washington lawmakers are preparing to revisit a proposal that would let public-sector unions bargain over their employers’ use of artificial intelligence.

The bill — known as House Bill 1622 — would require government employers to negotiate with unions before adopting AI technology if the changes could affect employee pay or performance reviews.

Earlier this year the bill passed the House, mostly along party lines, but stalled in the Senate.

Backers argue that since AI can now meaningfully impact work outcomes, employees deserve a say before such systems are introduced.

Opponents — including business groups and local-government officials — counter that the requirement could shift too much power toward labor and slow innovation.

Supporters of the law say that existing bargaining rules require negotiation only after AI is already in place; this bill would make bargaining mandatory before implementation.

With lawmakers planning to take another look in 2026, the issue remains open — and many public employees and officials are watching closely.