Generative AI in Government: DHS Releases Public Sector Playbook
Generative AI in Government: DHS Public Sector Playbook
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released the “Generative AI Public Sector Playbook,” a guide designed to help government officials improve service delivery through the responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI). The playbook outlines actionable steps for state, local, and federal agencies and includes examples drawn from DHS’s own experience deploying GenAI technologies.
By following the recommended actions and best practices, organizations can build a strong foundation for AI deployment. As a result, agencies may strengthen internal capabilities while promoting responsible and effective use of emerging technologies across the public sector.
DHS Leadership on Generative AI in Government
“The rapid evolution of GenAI presents tremendous opportunities for public sector organizations. DHS is at the forefront of federal efforts to responsibly harness the potential of AI technology,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “This new resource draws from our own experiences to help state and local leaders adopt AI technologies in their own work. Safely harnessing the potential of GenAI requires collaboration across government, industry, academia, and civil society.”
Similarly, DHS Chief Information Officer Eric Hysen emphasized the importance of the initiative. “The release of this playbook marks a significant step forward in our effort to integrate safe and secure AI use within the public sector,” he said. By sharing best practices, DHS aims to help agencies enhance their missions while protecting individual rights and privacy.
DHS Experience with AI and Machine Learning
Over the past several years, DHS has played a leading role in integrating AI into its operations. The Department has developed and implemented numerous AI and machine learning initiatives. These efforts support areas such as cybersecurity, border security, disaster response, and immigration services.
For example, DHS established the DHS Artificial Intelligence Roadmap, and created the AI Corps to attract technical talent. At the same time, DHS continues to stress that advancing AI technologies must align with strong protections for privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties.
Case Studies and Lessons Learned
The playbook includes detailed case studies from DHS pilot programs. These pilots tested GenAI applications that enhanced investigative leads, supported hazard mitigation planning for local governments, and created new training opportunities for immigration officers.
Based on lessons learned from these pilots, DHS offers recommendations for state and local agencies. Importantly, the guidance is structured to be useful for organizations at any stage of their AI development journey.
The Playbook traces the steps that DHS took in our own development of GenAI applications:
- Develop Mission-Enhancing GenAI Use Cases: Approaches for aligning AI projects with organizational priorities and mission needs.
- Build Coalitions and Foster Effective Governance: Strategies for gaining buy-in within your organization from senior leadership and building cross-organizational coalitions.
- Leverage Tools and Infrastructure: Recommendations for taking advantage of existing technical tools and infrastructure to support AI development.
- Use AI Responsibly and Safely: Principles for minimizing potential harm and ensuring ethical AI use.
- Measure Progress and Defining Success: Methods for tracking the effectiveness of AI deployments through key performance indicators.
- Train Employees and Hiring Technical Talent: Approaches for upskilling current employees and attracting technical talent.
- Seek User Feedback: Best practices for engaging users and stakeholders throughout the AI development lifecycle.
Transparency and Ongoing AI Oversight
The playbook reflects DHS’s ongoing commitment to transparency and responsible AI use. The Department recently published its updated AI Use Case Inventory, providing visibility into non‑classified AI uses across DHS. DHS has also implemented training programs on responsible AI and engaged with Congress and the public to strengthen accountability.
In November 2024, DHS launched the Roles and Responsibilities Framework for Artificial Intelligence in Critical Infrastructure, developed in consultation with the AI Safety and Security Board. This framework offers recommendations for safe and secure AI deployment across U.S. critical infrastructure sectors.
Accessing the Playbook
DHS will continue sharing updates as it advances its AI initiatives. To read the playbook, visit the DHS Generative AI Public Sector Playbook webpage.
To learn more about DHS’s broader AI efforts, visit the Artificial Intelligence at DHS webpage.
Content courtesy of The Department of Homeland Security
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