Artificial Intelligence is Transforming Maryland Public Information Act Processes
Speaking at the 2026 MACo Fall Symposium, Alisa Bralove Scherr evaluated the legal challenges and new dynamics created by artificial intelligence in Public Information Act processes.
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence technologies is leading to significant changes and new administrative challenges in Maryland Public Information Act processes.
Artificial Intelligence Discussions at the Symposium
The impacts of artificial intelligence on the public information act were addressed at the 2026 MACo Fall Symposium held for Maryland local officials.
The opportunities and responsibilities brought by the technology were thoroughly examined at the event.
Impacts on the Process
Deputy Public Access Ombudsman Alisa Bralove Scherr explained how artificial intelligence affects the process from initial requests to the mediation stage.
The ability of artificial intelligence tools to generate independent information requests leads to the emergence of novel situations.
Broad Requests and Lack of Reasoning
It was stated that artificial intelligence-based requests generally contain overly broad phrases such as any and all rather than being targeted.
It was emphasized that the systems lack human judgment and perspective during the mediation process.
Artificial Intelligence Hallucinations and Legal Misconceptions
It was stated that individuals accepting artificial intelligence responses directly as an authority on information leads to misunderstandings in legal processes.
It was noted that bots can misrepresent the Maryland Public Information Act and generate incorrect information with high confidence.
Policies Failing to Keep Pace with Developments
Concern was expressed that government policies and regulations cannot keep up with the rapid pace of change in artificial intelligence.
It was noted that new technologies cover areas that were not initially anticipated by lawmakers.
Recommended Best Practices
It was conveyed that artificial intelligence should be used solely as an auxiliary tool rather than as a decision-maker.
It was stated that artificial intelligence should not be relied upon in sensitive matters and that these technologies should be avoided during the mediation process.