Federal Agencies Face Nearly 100 New AI Directives, GAO Finds

Nearly 100 AI Requirements Challenge Federal Agencies, GAO Finds

Federal agencies are currently contending with a growing number of artificial intelligence requirements stemming from a variety of sources, including executive orders, federal legislation, and advisory guidance. According to a recent report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), as of July 2025, there are close to 100 government-wide AI-related objectives that could be considered standards across agencies.

The GAO highlighted that AI technologies offer significant opportunities to boost economic growth, advance scientific research, and improve government operations. However, the report also cautioned about the risks AI poses to individuals, communities, organizations, and the environment.

Scope of AI Requirements Across Federal Agencies

The report aimed to clarify the landscape of AI mandates facing federal agencies and identify which bodies hold responsibility for overseeing these efforts. It covered both specific agency requirements—such as creating inventories of AI use cases and updating AI policies—and broader national initiatives, like the National AI Initiative. This initiative emphasizes accelerating research and development and enhancing computing infrastructure.

The GAO noted that agencies are guided by a mix of legislative acts and executive actions. Congress has passed laws, and the President has issued executive orders to facilitate the adoption of AI within the federal government.

Multiple Stakeholders and Diverse Expectations

The review traced AI initiatives from the Trump administration’s early executive order on artificial intelligence and the AI Training Act to recent guidelines issued by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). It found that ten different entities have roles in overseeing AI efforts across the government.

In total, the GAO identified 94 distinct expectations related to AI. These include mandates on risk management, investment strategies, and usage policies designed to ensure responsible and effective AI deployment.

Agency Responses and Next Steps

• The GAO shared a draft of its findings with key agencies: OMB, the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), the Department of Commerce, the General Services Administration (GSA), and the National Science Foundation (NSF).
• OSTP, Commerce, and NSF provided technical feedback.
• GSA declined to comment, and OMB did not respond to the request for comments.

For federal employees working with AI, understanding these requirements is critical to ensuring compliance and aligning agency efforts with government-wide goals. Agencies must balance fostering innovation with mitigating potential risks.

To stay informed on AI policies and develop relevant skills, federal workers might consider exploring specialized training options. Resources such as Complete AI Training’s latest AI courses offer practical guidance tailored to government roles.