Digital Government

GSA officials misled agencies about Login-dot-gov

The agency’s inspector general blasted GSA officials for claiming that its identity proofing website met NIST guidelines for biometric comparison, charging millions for it, when it did not.

Creating responsible AI presents 'major technical challenges,' NIST official says

Experts discussed the regulations needed for fast-developing AI software, with NIST’s Elham Tabassi emphasizing the need for proper data and measurement strategies for different systems.

New federal service delivery model focuses on people and problems, not bureaucratic silos

The White House envisions applications for services like food assistance, Medicaid and other benefits taking 20 minutes, with enrollment coming after just 24 hours.

Watchdog: Secret Service, ICE failed to follow federal statutes in using cell phone tracking devices

Two federal agencies failed to consistently apply court statutes and Department of Homeland Security policies for the use of cell site simulators in law enforcement cases, in part because of insufficient policy guidance, a new report claims.

White House sends anti-fraud wishlist to Congress as stakeholders await identity executive order

Asked when the long-anticipated executive order would be coming out, senior advisor to the President Gene Sperling told reporters to “stay tuned” as the measure winds through legal approvals.

DHS tests show facial recognition tech has varied results, but gaining ground

Although some systems were able to meet performance thresholds for all demographic groups, others did show differentials because of issues with obtaining quality photos of people with varying skin tones.

CDC technology office plans roadmap for public health data interoperability

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Office of Public Health Data, Surveillance and Technology is aiming to expand public health data sharing and nationwide health equity over the next two years.

GSA not tapping data on unauthorized access attempts at federal facilities, report says

The General Services Administration isn't using access card data to mitigate risks on federal property, according to a new report.

Top White House leaders tease forthcoming agency guidance for digital identity 

OMB acting controller Deidre Harrison said Wednesday that she’s working with federal CIO Clare Martorana to get to agencies new guidance on digital identity following fraud in pandemic benefits programs. 

USDA to issue regulations to modernize, streamline the WIC program

The Agriculture Department is scheduled to publish a proposed rule that would remove current regulatory requirements that prevent online shopping in the WIC program. 

White House mulls scaling up Login-dot-gov to reach every American

A draft of a long-awaited executive order covering digital identity includes a push to make government-owned Login-dot-gov an option for most federal benefits programs.

Biden's equity executive order includes data, AI provisions

The order directs agencies to consider including their civil rights offices in decisions about artificial intelligence systems.

EPA's high-tech plane monitored toxic event site in Ohio

The rarely used sensor aircraft is said to be ready to deploy on a moment's notice.

Government’s chief data scientist previews agencies’ work on equitable data

U.S. Chief Data Scientist Denice Ross said government agencies are working to build capacity around equitable data, with a progress report on these efforts set to come out soon.

New GSA benefits hub to pilot text notifications

The General Services Administration's Public Benefits Studio is looking for agency partners to co-design and pilot a new digital notification service that will send customized reminders to individuals in public benefit programs.

Industry, Congress have eye on Login.gov and the public, private sector role in digital identity

The Software Alliance and Enterprise Cloud Coalition calls for a “technology neutral” solution to digital identity in a recent letter after Congress directed GSA to promote a policy of multiple credential service providers.

IRS names advisors on possible government-run direct filing system for taxpayers

The IRS tapped New America to report on the feasibility of a free, public-facing IRS-hosted tax filing infrastructure for ordinary taxpayers.