Artificial Intelligence: Preparing for the Next Governance Challenge

Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept; it is already reshaping how municipalities operate and deliver services to their communities. From drafting communications to analyzing policy documents, AI tools are increasingly being used by borough officials and staff to improve efficiency.

But as these technologies become more common in local government operations, they also introduce new legal and governance risks.

In an article published in the February issue of PA Borough News, Allyson Lonas explains how AI use can intersect with key Pennsylvania laws governing transparency and public records. She discusses how interactions with tools such as ChatGPT may create records subject to the Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law, raise compliance concerns under the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act, and generate discoverable evidence in litigation.

The article also provides practical guidance for borough officials on how to address these emerging risks, including developing AI policies, implementing oversight mechanisms, and training employees on appropriate AI use.

Click here or on the button below to read the full article as originally published in the February 2026 issue of PA Borough News.