A new report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) reveals major gaps in how federal agencies protect civil rights and civil liberties as they increasingly rely on technology and data-driven processes.
The GAO examined 24 federal agencies and found a concerning lack of unified laws and guidance for safeguarding citizens' rights related to data collection and sharing. While agencies have varying levels of protections in place, there is no comprehensive framework governing how they should handle personal information and emerging technologies.
The report highlights particular concerns around artificial intelligence (AI) and facial recognition systems. These tools have led to documented cases of misidentification and discriminatory outcomes, especially impacting marginalized communities. Current privacy laws, including the Privacy Act of 1974, fail to address modern challenges like informed consent and algorithmic bias.
Many agencies face staffing challenges, lacking personnel with expertise in both civil rights and advanced technology. This skills gap means critical assessments of how new tools impact civil liberties often happen sporadically or not at all.
While some agencies have taken proactive steps - like the Department of Homeland Security's civil liberties impact assessment tool - these efforts remain inconsistent across the government. The GAO notes that many agencies struggle to keep their policies current with rapid technological changes.
The watchdog agency recommends Congress direct an appropriate federal entity to issue government-wide guidance on protecting civil rights when handling data. This guidance should establish clear standards for evaluating new technologies and prevent systemic discrimination.
The GAO also calls for increased resources to help agencies build capacity through training and recruitment. Without comprehensive policies and proper oversight, the report warns that individuals remain vulnerable to privacy violations and discriminatory practices as government technology use continues to expand.
None of the examined agencies formally agreed or disagreed with the findings. Only three provided written responses, while the majority offered technical feedback or no comment.
The report makes clear that while technology presents opportunities for improved government services, it also introduces serious risks to civil rights that must be properly managed through unified policies, strategic investments, and consistent oversight across all federal agencies.