The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued an Information Collection Request (ICR) to assess the public’s perception of technology for national security. In recent years, DHS has investigated potential applications of artificial intelligence (AI) and facial recognition Americans might encounter.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a proposed rule detailing their intention to modernize biometrics collection and authorize expanded use of biometrics beyond background checks to include identity verification, secure document production, and records management in a press release dated September 1, 2020.

Several companies have announced plans to suspend cooperation with the federal government on facial recognition technology. Both IBM and Amazon announced this week concerns that, absent proper regulation, the technology could replicate biases that lead to racial profiling or improper use. Amazon has given the federal government one year to impose stronger regulations on the technology’s use.

Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and Mike Lee (R-UT) have introduced legislation requiring federal law enforcement to obtain a court order before using facial recognition technology for public surveillance. Lawmakers have described the legislation as an attempt to balance privacy concerns with law enforcement efforts.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has launched a 30-day proof of concept at the McCarren International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, Nevada for automating the identity verification portion of airport screenings using biometric technology. The technology uses live facial recognition to compare a traveler’s current image with their identification.