The General Accountability Office (GAO) found that three U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Projects are falling behind. Among the projects are the replacement of an information system to manage biometric information, the Automated Biometric Identification System (IDENT) program.

Most DHS major acquisition programs are on track. However, due to delays from the pandemic and some planning issues, some projects are in breach of status. The IDENT replacement program, with a planned spend of $3.9 billion, is one of the projects in breach. The new system, the Homeland Advanced Recognition Technology System (HART) replaces the legacy Automated Biometric Identification System (IDENT) as the primary Department of Homeland Security (DHS) system for immigration, among other uses. Originally scheduled to go into effect in September 2021, continued setbacks exist.

GAO stated IDENT system continues to be overextended. As such, a risk to DHS’ ability to provide biometrically verified identification information confirming an individual’s identity continues. Updated goals have been created for the HART project, putting the project back on track, albeit a new one.

ILBSG continues to monitor ongoing updates to the immigration process. If you have questions about an immigration-related issue, contact us at ILBSG. We put our expertise to work for you to ensure you get the right advice.

biometrics HART IDENT