Madrid will be able to force to do procedures on the Internet and will require human control in the use of AI

Madrid plans to require certain citizens to handle administrative procedures online and mandate human oversight for the use of artificial intelligence (AI). The new law from the Community of Madrid on digital administration and AI aims to establish guidelines for applying technological innovations in public management. Key aspects include using AI to streamline processes and automate tasks, reducing delays and improving efficiency for citizens seeking benefits or documentation. The law also emphasizes data security, transparency, informing users when services are managed via AI, and requiring human supervision. The regulation is still pending approval by the Madrid Assembly and is expected to be finalized soon. Miguel López-Valverde, the counselor for Digitization, explained during the debate on amendments to the law that the measure seeks to modernize public services, simplify administrative procedures, and ensure safe and responsible use of new technologies. He emphasized the need for this legislation to lay the groundwork for the digitization of the administration over the coming decade. Once approved, the law will be accompanied by regulatory developments and strategic plans. “This law means that Madrilenians will no longer have to submit paperwork and that AI will not advance without control,” he noted. The legal text outlines the commitment of the Community of Madrid to digitize its operations and adopt technological advancements such as AI to improve efficiency and reduce processing times for both citizens and businesses. It mandates the automation of processes, including measures to implement the principle of “once only,” ensuring citizens do not have to resubmit documents already recorded by the administration. The Digital Account will serve as the preferred channel for handling matters such as scholarship applications, procedure reviews, and notifications, though other operational channels remain available. The law also commits the regional government to advancing systems that allow personalized services, sending alerts about aid openings, and reminders for pending tasks. Additionally, it aims to expand the use of virtual assistants. One major novelty introduced by the law is the possibility of requiring some citizens to conduct public affairs through the internet. According to the text, individuals will have the obligation to interact with the Community of Madrid through electronic means, alongside those subject to such obligations under the law, for specific procedures. This requirement will be detailed through regulations and specify which individuals will be affected. Similar provisions apply to companies and other public administrations. Alongside these objectives, the law highlights the guarantees needed to ensure security. Measures will be implemented to guarantee privacy and security for all data, including clinical, neural, and biometric data. Furthermore, the law requires that whenever AI is used in a service, there should always be effective human oversight appropriate to the purpose.