The use of AI within the US federal government has seen a significant increase, as agencies identify numerous applications over the past year. However, the adoption and implementation remain sluggish, primarily due to funding shortages, outdated policies, and a workforce in need of upskilling.

An analysis by the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) highlights a marked increase in AI applications across various agencies, with a substantial rise in generative AI. Despite identified use cases, many face delays in deployment, with only a fraction reaching operational status.

A key finding is the focus of AI initiatives on internal processes, such as enhancing communication and streamlining workflows, while public-facing applications, including chatbots and virtual assistants, remain less common.

The GAO emphasizes that government agencies share common concerns with the private sector regarding AI, including the potential for biased outputs and the opaque nature of current AI systems. Specific challenges for agencies also include navigating complex regulations and adapting to the rapid evolution of AI technologies.

Agencies are encouraged to learn from successful implementations and leverage existing frameworks to better integrate AI into their operations, addressing the identified obstacles.