PROJECT BRIEF
AI Auditing Framework for Technology Review and Procurement
Lebanon, NH
Spring 2024
Peter Benzoni (Project Lead), Jude Ha, Erin Parker, Yifan Zhang, Sanjana Raj
BACKGROUND
In the digital age, artificial intelligence (AI) stands at the forefront of revolutionizing public administration and service delivery. However, this proliferation comes with significant challenges, including privacy concerns, ethical implications, and the paramount need for transparency and public trust. As AI systems increasingly influence various aspects of public life, the City of Lebanon, New Hampshire is committed to leading by example in the ethical utilization of AI, grounded in the city's "ADM-143 Use of Artificial Intelligence" policy.
AIMS
Through this integrated framework, the City of Lebanon aims to chart a responsible course for AI adoption, balancing innovation with integrity and setting a standard for ethical AI use in public administration. The deliverable outlines the principles guiding the AI auditing and technology review process, underscoring our commitment to using AI as a force for public good and enhancing services while safeguarding our community's rights and freedoms.
METHODOLOGY
The team began by reviewing relevant case studies that focused on existing AI auditing frameworks in addition to AI use policies and guidelines from other jurisdictions. Based on the findings of our case study research. The team also completed a use case analysis for a Criminal Justice Information Services software currently under review.
DELIVERABLES
The project delivered three key components to enhance Lebanon's AI governance: (1) AI auditing framework that establishes the risk assessment, evaluation criteria, and audit procedures for the City of Lebanon's auditing framework, (2) AI software review worksheet to assess the risk of AI applications adopted by the City, and (3)AI assessment questionnaire to provide Lebanon with digestible information about important service features and vendor concerns.
IMPACT AND FUTURE WORK
In conclusion, the AI Auditing Framework for Lebanon, NH, represents a significant step forward in ensuring that the deployment and use of artificial intelligence within city operations are conducted in a manner that is ethical, transparent, and aligned with the community's values. This project sets a benchmark for responsible AI utilization, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding individual privacy, ensuring equity, and maintaining robust oversight. The detailed strategies and proposed changes to existing policies underscore the City's commitment to leading by example in the ethical use of AI technologies.