CIC faculty member Eric P. Robinson, J.D., Ph.D. is helping shape the future of transparency in government as artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into public information processes.

Robinson, in collaboration with Erin K. Coyle of Arizona State University, earned third place in the Journal of Civic Information’s special research competition marking the 60th anniversary of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Their paper, “AI Meets FOIA Law: Legal Issues with the Use of Artificial Intelligence to Fulfill FOIA Requests,” was presented at Sunshine Fest 2026 in Washington, D.C.  The paper will be published in the Journal of Civic Information in the fall.

This research examines how federal agencies are beginning to pilot artificial intelligence tools to process FOIA requests, specifically to locate relevant records and redact sensitive or non-disclosable information. While these technologies offer the potential to improve efficiency and reduce backlogs, they also introduce complex legal and ethical questions.

Robinson and Coyle analyze how existing FOIA requirements, shaped by federal statute, agency regulations, and court decisions, apply to the use of AI in records processing. Their findings highlight a critical tension: agencies must balance innovation with strict legal standards for transparency, accuracy, and accountability.

The study also evaluates emerging AI-driven workflows currently being tested or proposed by federal agencies. Based on this analysis, the authors outline a set of protocols designed to help ensure that the use of AI aligns with established FOIA obligations.

This work provides timely guidance as public institutions explore how to responsibly adopt new technologies while maintaining public trust. As AI continues to transform information access, this research underscores the importance of grounding innovation in legal and ethical frameworks.