Daniel Ho, a professor at Stanford Law School, senior fellow at the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered AI and director of the university’s RegLab, praised OPM’s actions since the executive order so far, including its authorization of direct hire for AI positions.

“But the puzzling delays and lack of transparency in responding to the AI in Government Act, requirements for which were due over a year and a half ago, reflect big structural challenges in federal hiring,” he told Nextgov/FCW via email. “Without a forecast and occupational series, the White House’s AI ‘talent surge’ could turn into ‘talent blip.'”