House Science Committee Wants Answers from NIST on Facial Recognition Concerns

In a letter addressed to National Institute of Standards and Technology Director Laurie Locascio, three House Republicans have raised concerns regarding the use of facial recognition technology for identity verification in accessing federal online services. Committee Chair Frank Lucas (R-Okla.), along with Research and Technology Subcommittee Chair Mike Collins (R-Ga.) and Investigations and Oversight Subcommittee Chair Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.), are seeking detailed insights into NIST’s role in developing guidelines for facial recognition and digital identity, particularly around mitigating privacy and accuracy concerns​. The trio head the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.

The letter, dated October 8, 2024, references NIST’s Digital Identity Guidelines, which offer a framework for federal agencies to use facial recognition as a method of identity verification. While acknowledging the advantages of the technology, the lawmakers express concerns regarding its “trustworthiness,” especially in terms of personal privacy and the potential for biometric inaccuracies. They highlight ongoing apprehensions about facial recognition’s reliability, particularly with regard to ensuring accurate identity verification across diverse demographic groups​.

The committee members are also seeking information on the specific measures NIST has implemented to improve facial recognition accuracy and reliability. They inquire about how NIST addresses issues related to the storage and security of personally identifiable information collected through facial recognition processes. In their words, NIST is asked to clarify “safeguards… regarding the storage, duration, and potential use of sensitive PII data” to prevent misuse and unauthorized access to personal data​.

The letter underscores the role NIST plays in supporting federal agencies with the adoption and implementation of facial recognition and other digital identity technologies. The lawmakers are particularly interested in understanding how the guidelines, including the recent revisions, address the risks associated with these technologies. They request that NIST share its findings and efforts in promoting not only secure but also equitable application of digital identity verification tools for federal services​.

The inquiry aligns with broader concerns in Congress over the civil rights implications of AI and biometric technologies. As FedScoop notes, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senator Ed Markey (D-Mass.) recently urged the White House to mandate that federal agencies using AI establish civil rights offices to address potential algorithmic discrimination. A U.S. Commission on Civil Rights report has also emphasized the need for federal oversight on facial recognition, recommending that agency AI officers collaborate with NIST on testing protocols​.

The members of congress had requested a response by October 22. A NIST spokesperson has confirmed that the agency received the letter and plans to respond accordingly.

Source: FedScoop

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October 15, 2024 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team