Agencies are looking to apply AI improve efficiency in searching for and retrieving records that may be responsive to FOIA requests. Image: Tada Images/Shutterstock.com
By: FEDweek StaffAlmost a fifth of federal entities that process FOIA requests are using AI and machine learning, and those “early adopters are demonstrating the ability of AI to identify sensitive information and normalizing the concept of AI in FOIA processing,” says a report.
That is a “notable” number as agencies are looking to apply AI improve efficiency in searching for and retrieving records that may be responsive to FOIA requests, said the report based on responses from some 280 federal entities to a survey earlier this year on their FOIA compliance activities.
“AI and machine learning have the potential to aid in FOIA processing but are not a substitute for the judgment of FOIA professionals on application of exemptions and foreseeable harm. It is important that agencies explore the use of AI and/or machine learning options to help improve FOIA processing response times,” said the report from the Office of Government Information Services, an arm of the National Archives and Records Administration that serves as an ombudsman over federal agency compliance with the FOIA.
The Chief FOIA Officers Council Technology Committee is currently preparing a draft request for information from industry on use of AI tools and technology as an aid to FOIA processing, it said.
Among other findings, the survey showed that nearly half of respondents reported finding records responsive to a FOIA request that were beyond their retention period. “Disposing of records in accordance with NARA-approved disposition schedules can reduce the burden on the FOIA program as there may be fewer records to search for and process. It is therefore vital that agencies follow their records disposition schedules closely,” it said.
It added, “Records management training for FOIA professionals, and FOIA training for records management professionals, are crucial for the effective management of government information. It is critical that agencies ensure that FOIA and records management training (both formal and informal) is regularly made available to both sets of personnel.”
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