Artificial Intelligence: Agencies Have Begun Implementation but Need to Complete Key Requirements

While there are varying definitions of AI, they generally refer to computing systems that “learn” how to improve their performance. AI has the potential to rapidly change the world and holds substantial promise for improving government operations. However, AI poses risks that can negatively impact individuals, groups, organizations, communities, and society. Based on a review of reports from 20 out of 23 agencies, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) is making 35 recommendations to 19 agencies, including the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), to fully implement federal AI requirements. Specifically, GAO is recommending that:

• Fifteen agencies update their AI use case inventories to include required information and take steps to ensure the data aligns with guidance.
• OMB, Office of Science and Technology Policy, and Office of Personnel Management implement AI requirements with government-wide implications, such as issuing guidance and establishing or updating an occupational series with AI-related positions.
• Twelve agencies fully implement AI requirements in federal law, policy, and guidance, such as developing a plan for how the agency intends to conduct annual inventory updates; and describing and planning for regulatory authorities on AI.