AI in Public Administration: Legal Implications for Automated Government Decision-Making

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming public administration, offering new avenues for enhancing government decision-making, improving service delivery, and optimizing resource allocation. From predictive analytics in healthcare to automated decision-making in social welfare programs, AI systems are becoming integral tools in the public sector. However, the widespread use of AI in governance raises significant legal challenges that must be carefully addressed to ensure accountability, fairness, and transparency. This article explores the legal implications of AI in automated government decision-making, examining the existing regulatory frameworks at the local, regional, and international levels, and identifying the potential gaps in these laws. A particular focus is given to issues of accountability, privacy, transparency, bias, and due process. The article discusses how current legal systems struggle with assigning liability when AI systems cause harm, and how laws around privacy and data protection must evolve to address the unique challenges posed by AI. Furthermore, it explores the necessity for transparency in AI decision-making and the legal challenges of ensuring explainability in complex AI systems. The article also delves into the risk of algorithmic bias and discrimination in government decisions, highlighting the legal implications of biased AI models and the potential for systemic inequality. Finally, it considers the impact of AI on due process, particularly in the context of legal and regulatory decision-making. This article aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the legal landscape surrounding AI in public administration, offering insights into how governments can navigate these challenges while ensuring that AI technologies are used in a fair and accountable manner.